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Community => JD Sports Forum! => Topic started by: Scott on June 28, 2005, 02:35 PM

Title: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Scott on June 28, 2005, 02:35 PM
EDIT:  Splitting this off the old NBA thread, and starting the new season's thread right here. - M

Scott E Roth Cup For Excellence in Mock Drafting tonight!

My picks

1. Bogut
2. M. Williams
3. D. Williams
4. Paul
5. Green
6. Felton
7. Webster
8. Frye
9. Wright
10. Granger
11. Korolev
12. Warrick
13. Graham
14. Vazquez

Wolves need all sorts of help, I hope McHale finally pulls his head out of his drafting ass.  Their scouting/draft history SUCKS
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: Scott on June 29, 2005, 12:37 AM
1. Bogut
2. M. Williams
3. D. Williams

4. Paul
5. Green
6. Felton
7. Webster
8. Frye
9. Wright
10. Granger
11. Korolev
12. Warrick
13. Graham
14. Vazquez

5 right...about normal actually, I didn't win

I can't believe the Wolves passed up Warrick for McCants
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: Brian on June 29, 2005, 01:43 PM
I was actually kind of happy to see the Wolves pick McCants, but this is coming from a UNC fan from a ways back.  He really is a talented player.  Warrick would have been a nice pick too, I was quite excited to see both were still available when the 14th pick came around.  I really think there were a lot of talented players in this draft, but some teams really blew it once again..at least in my opinion.
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: JediMAC on June 29, 2005, 01:57 PM
There's a new Shaq in town, baby!  8)

Youngest player ever drafted though, so by the time we groom him into shape in 3 years, he'll be off to a new team, I'm sure...
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: Scott on June 29, 2005, 02:33 PM
Toronto, Golden State and LA screwed their picks big time...not saying I don't like McCants, I'd just rather have Warrick.  McCants supposed attitude problems is not what the Wolves need right now
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: JayDouble on June 29, 2005, 02:46 PM
I think the people that draft are just stupid. 
1. Bucks - good pick
2. Hawks- You already have Josh Smith and Al Harrington playing the same position, they should've pick Paul
3. Jazz - got the guy they wanted
4. Hornets - um didn't you trade Baron to give Dickau playing time, now you have 3 pgs
5. Bobcats - same as Hornets, Brevin and Hart actually did a good job last year.  Needed a swingman
6./7. Blazers/Raptors - don't know what they're thinking
8. Knicks - good pick
9. Warriors - good pick, playoff contender if Baron stays healthy
10. Lakers - why?   ???
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: Brian on July 8, 2005, 03:41 PM
Some minor news, just concerning free agency signings.  Sounds like Ray Allen (Sonics) and Michael Redd (Bucks) will be re-upping with max deals with their respective teams.  However, news today sounds as if Larry Hughes will be signing with Cleveland, and leaving Washington.  Although maybe not the "pure shooter" they wanted/needed, I think he will be an excellent addition to their team.  I've always enjoyed him as a player, and I think he is fairly under-rated.  Most definitely a step up from their previous SGs.
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: Brian on July 20, 2005, 09:16 AM
Well, it looks like Larry Brown is out of Detroit...and moving on....again.  Surprise, surprise.  If he does decide to coach again, it will likely be in New York.  I think they Knicks need more than LB to turn things around though, we'll see.  Some other random free agent signings:

Larry Hughes, Donyell Marshall - Cleveland Cavaliers
Shareef Abdur Rahim - New Jersey Nets
Stromile Swift - Houston Rockets
Kwame Brown (via Sign and Trade) - Los Angeles Lakers
Antonio Daniels, Caron Butler (Sign and Trade) - Washington Wizards
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: JediMAC on July 20, 2005, 06:47 PM
Some other random free agent signings:

Kwame Brown (via Sign and Trade) - Los Angeles Lakers
Antonio Daniels, Caron Butler (Sign and Trade) - Washington Wizards

What happened to the Lakers' Chucky Atkins in that equation?  I thought he was supposed to go with Caron Butler...  Is he going in a 3-way trade now, up to Seattle for Daniels?

As for Larry Brown, boy, that's a shock.  ::)
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: Brian on July 21, 2005, 09:21 AM
The last I heard on that proposed Lakers - Wizards deal (can't go through quite yet I guess) broke down like this:

Lakers Receive:
F/C - Kwame Brown
F - Laron Profit

Wizards Receive:
F - Caron Butler
G - Chucky Atkins

Also, last I heard it sounded like Antonio Daniels was prepared to sign with Washington.
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: Brian on August 1, 2005, 01:38 PM
It is sounding like Joe Johnson will get his wish to be part of a sign and trade between Phoenix and Atlanta.  Johnson has made it known recently that he was hoping Phoenix would not match the Hawks' offer sheet, so he could go to Atlanta.  From the best record in the NBA to one of the worst teams...not sure if I get it...aside from not liking being "4th fiddle" behind Nashty, Marion, and Amare.  Here's the details (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/columns/story?columnist=stein_marc&id=2120960):

Atlanta Receives:
G/F - Joe Johnson (signs 70M contract as part of sign and trade)

Phoenix Receives:
G - Boris Diaw
Two future 1st Round picks (lottery protected)
5 M Trade Exception

I've always been a bit of a fan of Phoenix, and I was happy to see them do so well last season.  I really thought the core they had could continue for a number of years...but this throws a wrench in that.  Aside from wanting to be a primary option, I'm not sure why Johnson would do this.  He could have gotten big money from Phoenix anyways (they were planning to match any offers), and been part of a very good team.  After trading Q Richardson to NY, and now probably losing Joe Johnson, I hope that Phoenix heavily pursues Michael Finley...who is said to be available.
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: Brian on August 2, 2005, 03:57 PM
Now that signings andtrades (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news?slug=ap-three-teamtrade&prov=ap&type=lgns) can officially happen, here's another one reported today:

Sacramento Receives:

G - Bonzi Wells

Memphis Receives:

G - Bobby Jackson
C - Greg Ostertag

It sounds like it is possible Ostertag could be moving on (back to) Utah, but that isn't confirmed yet.  I'd say if Bobby Jackson could stay healthy for once, Memphis got the better end of this deal.  Bonzi is talented, but has always been a bit of a head case.

Other rumors include....Jason Williams heading to Miami, Antoine Walker to Miami, Michael Finley going somewhere, Damon Stoudemire possibly to Memphis, and others.  Could be a different landscape once again once everything falls into place for the different teams.  Hopefully Minnesota can be back in the hunt this year ;).  Glad to see them rid of Spree, and pick up a former Heel in McCants.  Its a start anyways.  I agree, good plan for Miami to seal up Shaq for (likely) the rest of his career.  They should be contending once again this year.
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: Brian on August 3, 2005, 08:50 AM
Wow, big ole trade (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=2122976) going down yesterday, involving 5 teams and 13 players.  Here's the rundown:

Miami Receives:

G - Jason Williams
F - James Posey
F - Antoine Walker
G/F - Andre Emmett
C - Roberto Duenas (Spain - draft rights)

Memphis Receives:

G - Eddie Jones
G - Raul Lopez

Utah Receives:

C - Greg Ostertag

Boston Receives:

C - Curtis Borchart
G - Qyntel Woods
C - Albert Miralles (draft rights)
2 2nd Round Picks
cash

New Orleans Receives:

G/F - Rasual Butler
G - Kirk Snyder

Whew, I think that's all of it.  Biggest trade in NBA history, pending physicals for all the players involved.  I'm not sure what I think of the deal for Miami, who is the biggest dealer in this trade.  You get rid of Eddie Jones' big contract, but he was a decent player.  Plus, the Heat might have been a healthy D. Wade away from the finals last season.  I've never been a big fan of Antoine Walker (or Jason Williams really for that matter) and it will be interesting to see how the mesh with the rest of the Heat team.  Shaq took a pay cut for some moves to happen, apparently asking personally to lower his contract from $125 to $100 million.  Either way, he's not going to be starving, but they did say it cut off up to $10 per season from his deal.  Hope it was worth it.
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: Morgbug on August 3, 2005, 04:25 PM
And Boston does what, again?  The Walker-revolving-door program continues ::)
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: Dressel Rebel on August 3, 2005, 09:23 PM
And Boston does what, again?  The Walker-revolving-door program continues ::)

I don't know, Wade, Shaq, and Antoine is quite a triumverate.  They are going to be an offensive beast.
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: Morgbug on August 3, 2005, 11:24 PM
clarification: I'm a Celtics fan.
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: SpudTrooper on August 4, 2005, 07:07 PM
Miami will win the East for sure now. if they dont, thats alot of money being wasted.  8)
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: JediMAC on August 13, 2005, 04:23 AM
Cassell to the Clippers, for our PG Marco Jaric.  Good deal for you Wolves' fans, for sure.

Looks like Shareef Abdur-Rahim isn't heading to NJ now, but instead just signed with Sacto.  Getting interesting...
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: Brian on August 15, 2005, 05:26 PM
I'm actually kind of happy to see that trade, because I'm happy to see both Cassell and Spree go.  They were both getting up their in years, and well past their prime, and its nice to see the Wolves getting a little younger.  Jaric seems like a good enough player too, from what I have seen of him.
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: Brian on August 17, 2005, 04:36 PM
Sounds like the Mavs used the whole amnesty thing to cut Michael Finley loose, so in a week or so, he's a free agent.  Sounds like the top 4 (Miami, San Antonio, Detroit, Phoenix) are the front runners, with Denver and Minnesota also giving chase (among others).  I'd really like to see him end up with the TWolves, although I know it isn't likely.  Hopefully he'll go back to Phoenix (where he started), and fill in the Joe Johnson/Q Richardson role.  He's still a pretty good player I think, and a nice addition to any of those teams.
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: JayDouble on August 17, 2005, 05:41 PM
What's funny about the Amnesty clause is it was dubbed the "Allan Houston rule" but the Knicks get rid of Jerome Williams instead of Houston.  Damn there president is a genius.   :P
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: Scott on August 17, 2005, 07:38 PM
Two things on the Cassel deal...

I hate they traded the 1st rounder (even conditionally)

Cassel hated Wally...so he needed to go.  The Wolves got a ton younger this year which is exactly what they needed to do.  We'll see what happens but they are a borderline playoff team now, and only because of KG
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: john todd on August 18, 2005, 07:35 PM
What's funny about the Amnesty clause is it was dubbed the "Allan Houston rule" but the Knicks get rid of Jerome Williams instead of Houston.  Damn there president is a genius.   :P

i thought that was funny too.  it seems that they saved like $23 million dumping jerome williams.  it turns out that if houston never plays again insurance covers his salary anyhow, so his money was a wash anyhow.  if he does come back he is a pretty good player and he gets along very well with new coach larry brown.


Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: john todd on August 18, 2005, 07:43 PM
Sounds like the Mavs used the whole amnesty thing to cut Michael Finley loose, so in a week or so, he's a free agent. 

i always really liked finley, so its sad to see him get the boot like that.  i guess it was win/win though since the top teams in the league are after him and cuban saves over $50 million.

now the mavs just have to find a way to cover his 17 points a game.
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: Brian on September 1, 2005, 09:19 AM
It looks like the Spurs have won the Michael Finley (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/columns/story?columnist=stein_marc&id=2147720) sweepstakes.  The champs get even better with adding Finley, as well as Nick Van Exel this week.  They're going to be tough once again.
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: Dressel Rebel on September 3, 2005, 10:19 PM
It looks like the Spurs have won the Michael Finley (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/columns/story?columnist=stein_marc&id=2147720) sweepstakes.  The champs get even better with adding Finley, as well as Nick Van Exel this week.  They're going to be tough once again.

I think the Spurs and the Cavs are going to be 2 of the bigger powerhouses of The Association this year.  Miami too.  Check out those Cavs:

PF  Drew Gooden  :)
SF  LeBron James  :o
 C  Zydrunas Ilgauskas  :D
PG  Eric Snow  :P
SG  Larry Hughes  :o

Donyell Marshall off the bench.
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: SpudTrooper on September 3, 2005, 11:04 PM
SPURS are gonna win again.


Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: Dressel Rebel on September 3, 2005, 11:06 PM
SPURS are gonna win again.




Yeah probably.  But I think the Heat and Cavs will be better than last year, the Cavs will be a lot better.  Standard presumptions of healthy star players applies.  It'll be interesting to see the Pistons without Larry Brown as well.
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: john todd on September 7, 2005, 07:46 PM
dang... i hate the freakin' spurs, but you are probably right.  they just keep getting better.  maybe they will run a little more with fin and nick, but i doubt it.  they have a formula for winning, but it is painful to watch.
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: Dressel Rebel on September 8, 2005, 02:33 AM
It looks like the Spurs have won the Michael Finley (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/columns/story?columnist=stein_marc&id=2147720) sweepstakes.  The champs get even better with adding Finley, as well as Nick Van Exel this week.  They're going to be tough once again.

I think the Spurs and the Cavs are going to be 2 of the bigger powerhouses of The Association this year.  Miami too.  Check out those Cavs:

PF  Drew Gooden  :)
SF  LeBron James  :o
 C  Zydrunas Ilgauskas  :D
PG  Eric Snow  :P
SG  Larry Hughes  :o

Donyell Marshall off the bench.

We can add Damon Jones to the Cavs list as of tonight.
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: Dressel Rebel on September 9, 2005, 08:04 PM
As I've been preparing for the NBA fantasy draft here, I'm now confident that the Cleveland Cavaliers, on paper at the very least, have the best team in the NBA:

PF  Drew Gooden 
SF  LeBron James 
 C  Zydrunas Ilgauskas 
PG  Damon Jones 
SG  Larry Hughes

Now that their starting PG has been made Damon Jones, look at that starting five.  The real X factor here is that just look at the improvement that LeBron James has made between year 1 and year 2, as opposed to Carmelo Anthony say, who has really flatlined between year 1 and 2.  If LeBron makes another huge leap like he did in his sophomore year, I don't care how battle hardened Timmay and the Spurs are, Cleveland Cavs will be the NBA champions.  This is one phenomenal squad.
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: Morgbug on September 10, 2005, 11:56 PM
I agree it's impressive, but the NBA almost more than any other sport needs a team to have the talent and know how to use it in the finals.  More than a few teams with great talent have made it there, only to lose in spite of being superior talent-wise. 

Couple that with the health of the players and I think you're a year out yet for Cleveland. 
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: john todd on September 12, 2005, 05:50 PM
i like cleveland because they are a young and fun to watch team, but i am still skeptical.  they have some real talent, but after they crumbled last year, even with the new guys and new coach, i would be surprised if they can knock some of the perenials out of the top couple of spots.
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: juanelopezrosario on September 23, 2005, 08:17 PM
CLEVELAND AS CHAMPS!!!! NO IT IS TO EARLY AND THE EXPERIENCE FACTOR IS CRITICAL...IN THE EAST IT WILL BE MIAMI
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: Dressel Rebel on September 23, 2005, 08:28 PM
CLEVELAND AS CHAMPS!!!! NO IT IS TO EARLY AND THE EXPERIENCE FACTOR IS CRITICAL...IN THE EAST IT WILL BE MIAMI

Miami with Shaq could beat Cleveland, Miami has the experience factor.  I just think on paper LeBron, Larry Hughes, Drew Gooden, Ilgauskas and Damon Jones are the most talented.  But the games are played for a reason, instead of 20 geeks sitting around a table and just voting on the best team.  There's always a twist.
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: john todd on September 24, 2005, 11:33 AM
But the games are played for a reason, instead of 20 geeks sitting around a table and just voting on the best team.  There's always a twist.

that is true.  its not as blatant as in football, but there is pretty much always at least one  team that greatly exceeds expectations.  if shaq is injured and detroit and indiana aren't as steady as they have been cleveland could be #1 in the east.
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: Dressel Rebel on September 24, 2005, 06:16 PM
To hell with Where's Waldo.  See if you can find the 3 NBA players in this photo:

(http://us.news2.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/ap/20050923/capt.mico10309231603.brawl_paces_mico103.jpg)
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: Brian on October 12, 2005, 10:52 AM
Kind of crappy news out of Phoenix, with Amare Stoudemire likely out (at least) 4 months with a knee injury.  It sounds like it is the same injury that players like Penny Hardaway, Allan Houston, and Chris Webber have had in the past...and those guys weren't ever the same really.  Of course, from what I've read this morning, Amare's isn't quite as serious and he's a lot younger when he went through the procedure.  Hopefully he'll be back at full strength ASAP, I'd like to see the Suns do well again this year.
Title: Re: NBA 2004/05
Post by: Dressel Rebel on October 13, 2005, 03:39 AM
Kind of crappy news out of Phoenix, with Amare Stoudemire likely out (at least) 4 months with a knee injury.  It sounds like it is the same injury that players like Penny Hardaway, Allan Houston, and Chris Webber have had in the past...and those guys weren't ever the same really.  Of course, from what I've read this morning, Amare's isn't quite as serious and he's a lot younger when he went through the procedure.  Hopefully he'll be back at full strength ASAP, I'd like to see the Suns do well again this year.

We all know how these knee injuries can go.  Jason Kidd is really the sole example of a player who returned as his former self afterwards.  But doctors in Amare's case say they saw nothing else wrong with the knee at all while they were in there, and combined with his age, are very optimistic he'll come back as strong, or stronger, as he was last year.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on October 14, 2005, 05:54 PM
i think even jason kidd isn't as explosive as he was before, but since his strengths never relied on his athleticism he has remained a pretty decent player.

amare is young though, but he still might have to learn to shoot.  this is probably bad news for the suns for this season. i would guess they won't win 60 again.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: SpudTrooper on October 17, 2005, 01:59 AM
Amare should be pack before All Star break, he'll heal fast cuz he's young. Suns will be good as long as Nash and Marion are injure free

GO LAKERS!  8)
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on October 17, 2005, 06:50 PM
i know he is a bunch older and probably never as talented, but allan houston's similar knee injury just ended his career.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Dressel Rebel on October 17, 2005, 09:29 PM
I wouldn't be surprised if we don't see Amare until the playoffs if the Suns are sitting pretty.  I do not trust knee surgery.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on October 18, 2005, 05:53 PM
even if they just sneak in at the 8th seed i might hide him until april.  knees are tricky and i am sure the suns don't want amare to become the next vince carter.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Dressel Rebel on October 18, 2005, 09:42 PM
i am sure the suns don't want amare to become the next vince carter.

Agreed.  No head coach wants their player to miss 30 games annually with a strained right vulva.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Morgbug on October 24, 2005, 10:04 PM
even if they just sneak in at the 8th seed i might hide him until april.  knees are tricky and i am sure the suns don't want amare to become the next vince carter.

Are you suggesting Amare wants out of Phoenix as much as Carter wanted out of Toronto? ;)
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Dressel Rebel on October 25, 2005, 07:46 AM
even if they just sneak in at the 8th seed i might hide him until april.  knees are tricky and i am sure the suns don't want amare to become the next vince carter.

Are you suggesting Amare wants out of Phoenix as much as Carter wanted out of Toronto? ;)

I think he's suggesting that the Suns want Amare to heal, rather than becoming the next chronically injured player, like Vinsanity.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Morgbug on October 25, 2005, 12:58 PM
I hate the internet. 

That was sarcasm and a shot at Carter who acknowledged he dogged it during his last months in Toronto.  Class act all the way. 

I get knees, trust me.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Brian on October 26, 2005, 03:05 PM
A new trade (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=2204385) is being reported today, apparently sending Desmond Mason, a 2006 1st round pick, and cash from the Bucks to the New Orleans/Oklahoma City Hornets in exchange for Jamaal Magloire.  I've always kind of been a fan of Mason's, so its too bad to see him relegated to what is likely the worst team in the league this year.  Of course, he should get more of a chance to shine now too...and be part of a young team.  Milwaukee gets another big to put alongside rookie Andrew Bogut.  Details at the linky above.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: JohnH on October 27, 2005, 12:19 AM
Funny, I didn't realize the 2006 NBA drafted had occured yet.  ;)  He was actually a 2000 pick.  Interesting trade.  I think Desmond will turn it up a notch with the Hornets.

John
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Brian on October 27, 2005, 09:19 AM
Quote
Funny, I didn't realize the 2006 NBA drafted had occured yet.    He was actually a 2000 pick.

 :D  Sorry, I probably worded that funny, but what I meant was that the Hornets received Milwaukee's 1st round pick next year (2006) in addition to Desmond Mason and cash.  I guess I should have typed it like this:

Milwaukee Receives:
C - Jamaal Magloire

New Orleans/Oklahoma City Receives:
F - Desmond Mason
2006 1st Round Pick
cash

Sorry for the confusion :).
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: JediMAC on November 18, 2005, 05:16 AM
Uh...  Maybe all you nitwits didn't notice, but the NBA season has started now.  Anyone watching?!

Lakers sure got off to a great start, with Kobe hitting a game winner in the opener against Denver, with .6 seconds left in OT.  Then we got off to a 3-1 start, and had a nice 10 point lead IN Minnesota before the roof collapsed on us, and we lost three straight, all on the road.  Damned ******** for getting our hopes sky-high like that!  >:(

Bounced back against the Knicks last night with Kobe going for 40+ to regain the scoring lead.  Still, some serious questions about our interior defense, as well as our bench, which should be greatly enhanced when Luke Walton finally comes back from the IR this week.

A lot of parity around the league in general this year though, with the only clear-cut front-runners seeming to be the Spurs and Pistons (and maybe the Heat/Pacers).  Other than that, both conferences seem to be wide open races.  Hell, even the Clippers are making some noise early on.  Thanks for that Cassell fella, btw...  ;)
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: JayDouble on November 18, 2005, 01:19 PM
Today is the anniversary of the Detroit/Indiana/fans fight. 
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Jeff on November 18, 2005, 01:29 PM
Uh...  Maybe all you nitwits didn't notice, but the NBA season has started now.  Anyone watching?!

Until the T-Wolves do enough to get me back on the bandwagon (4-4 ain't gonna cut it, though the win over the LAkers was nice  :D), I'm content to ignore the NBA until after the Superbowl.

Everyone knows the regular season doesn't count for much anyway...  :P 
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on November 20, 2005, 01:51 PM
Today is the anniversary of the Detroit/Indiana/fans fight. 

the mavs decided to  remember that night with a 37 point stomping of the previously undefeated pistons.

what an awesome game (unless you are a pistons fan).  not only did they get a win, but the mavs put together their new defense with their old scoring.  if they could bottle the intensity they had last night, they would be very tough to beat.  maybe even championship material.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Dressel Rebel on November 21, 2005, 08:33 PM


Until the T-Wolves do enough to get me back on the bandwagon (4-4 ain't gonna cut it, though the win over the LAkers was nice  :D), I'm content to ignore the NBA until after the Superbowl.

Everyone knows the regular season doesn't count for much anyway...  :P 

There is one nasty rumor going around that Kevin Garnett is heading to the NY Knicks.  So Scott, Jeff, and you other MN people...I beg you....take Stephon Marbury.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Omega Squad Commander on November 22, 2005, 10:36 AM
PISTONS will win this year, pardon I'm a fanatic. ;D
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on November 30, 2005, 12:20 AM

There is one nasty rumor going around that Kevin Garnett is heading to the NY Knicks.  So Scott, Jeff, and you other MN people...I beg you....take Stephon Marbury.

the twolves were the 1st team to get sick of marbury.  i kinda doubt they will take him back.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Clone On Fire on December 12, 2005, 09:33 AM
Whoooo we got some hot Ron Artest for Peja Stojakovic rumors floating!  Artest says he wants to be traded and thinks that the Knicks would be a perfect fit for him.  Um, yeah, Larry Brown would probably put up with about 4 minutes of his bs before sticking him on the bench.

Artest does this almost every year, last year he needed a vacation and said he wanted to retire to work on his rap cd.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on December 12, 2005, 04:05 PM
i know neither guy is happy where he is, but sacramento would really seem to be getting the fuzzy side of the lollipop of that deal.

this might push indiana to the top of the east, but it seems like sacramento is pushing for a higher lottery pick.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: SpudTrooper on December 13, 2005, 01:07 AM
i want Artest to come to the Lakers for Odom!!!  :)
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Clone On Fire on December 14, 2005, 11:44 AM
Oh dear God what are the Cavaliers doing losing to the Hawks?!  Yeah Zydrunas was out but there's no excuse for the Cavs' play lately, they really got knocked down a peg in my book.  I say bench Snow and move LeBron to point and grab Artest while you can and put him at SF!! 
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: JayDouble on December 14, 2005, 12:51 PM
i want Artest to come to the Lakers for Odom!!!  :)

I don't want that nut job anywhere near the Lakers.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Clone On Fire on December 14, 2005, 03:17 PM
i want Artest to come to the Lakers for Odom!!!  :)

I don't want that nut job anywhere near the Lakers.

Well he's twice the player Odom is (maybe more), and the Lakers aren't going anywhere as they are.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: JayDouble on December 14, 2005, 03:45 PM
Well he's twice the player Odom is (maybe more), and the Lakers aren't going anywhere as they are.

You're kidding right.  They finally move Lamar to the 4 on the road trip and guess what the Lakers are 4-1.  Lamar is back to being a triple double threat now averaging 15pts, 10 rebs, and 6 asst a game.  I'll take those numbers any day then a guy that will flip out within 2 weeks.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Jeff on January 19, 2006, 02:10 PM
So during the Wolves game last night, they said that KG is now just the sixth player in NBA history to:

- score 16,000+ points
- pull down 9,000+ rebounds
- record 3,500+ assists

The other 5 guys to do it? 

Wilt Chamberlain, Elgin Baylor, Charles Barkley, Kareem Abdul Jabbar and Karl Malone.


Man, it's times like this I wish the Wolves woudn't have screwed everything up.  Between piss-poor drafting and the Joe Smith scandal, this team frittered away some GREAT KG years.   :'(

So, I guess I am left to just sit back and hope that next year they finally get rid of McHale and go get KG the help that he needs to win it all...  :-\
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Brian on January 19, 2006, 03:59 PM
Quote
Man, it's times like this I wish the Wolves woudn't have screwed everything up.  Between piss-poor drafting and the Joe Smith scandal, this team frittered away some GREAT KG years.   

So, I guess I am left to just sit back and hope that next year they finally get rid of McHale and go get KG the help that he needs to win it all...

I agree totally Jeff.  Every time I get a chance to watch the Wolves on TV, I'm again reminded of how great a player KG really is.  So consistent, plays so hard each and every night, and very talented.  He seems to be able to dominate each facet of the game, and usually leads the team in about everything.  I really hope he is able to get a ring before its all said and done.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on January 19, 2006, 07:03 PM
every year there is dirk for kg trade rumors.  i am sure it is nothing more than that, but i am always hopeful.  i think if he could get any sort of supporting cast the twolves would be contenders every year.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Scott on January 22, 2006, 11:46 PM
All the blame can be centered on two things:


(http://www.jsonline.com/graphics/sports/buck/img/jun03/1joe627.jpg)

(http://www.hoophall.com/halloffamers/img/kevinmchale1.JPG)
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Dressel Rebel on January 24, 2006, 04:00 PM
What's up people, I've been crazy busy lately but I had to sign in to see what everyone thinks of the Ron Artest for Peja Stojakovic trade.  Looks like nobody has heard or said anything yet.

Now Indiana is a contender again with a great top 3 in Stephen Jackson, Jermaine O'Neal, Peja and the Kings also look nice with Brad Miller, Mike Bibby and Ron Artest.  The Kings look real good, as long as the Terrell Owens of basketball can keep his mouth shut and play some ball, he's in the top 10 in the NBA talent wise.  Artest has Defensive Player of the Year capability, he can hit the 3, he can block shots, he can steal the ball like a fiend, he can score like crazy.

Should be fun to watch.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Dressel Rebel on January 24, 2006, 07:10 PM
Whoa, 5 hours after it was reported, the trade has been called off!  I wonder what happened...

http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news;_ylt=AlXDgnUtAamv5FBjAoI322E5nYcB?slug=ap-pacers-artest&prov=ap&type=lgns (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news;_ylt=AlXDgnUtAamv5FBjAoI322E5nYcB?slug=ap-pacers-artest&prov=ap&type=lgns)
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on January 25, 2006, 07:15 PM
prolly someone in sacramento actually met artest.  i can't believe anyone would touch him with a 10 foot pole.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on January 25, 2006, 07:54 PM
And now, it seems, the trade is back on again.  What the hell is going on with this wacko?
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: SpudTrooper on January 25, 2006, 10:00 PM
feel sorry for Peja, only member of the queens i like
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Scott on January 26, 2006, 10:54 PM
Wow...

BOSTON -- The Boston Celtics acquired Wally Szczerbiak and Michael Olowokandi from the Minnesota Timberwolves on Thursday night in a multiplayer deal that sent Ricky Davis and three other players to Minnesota.



Davis, Mark Blount, Marcus Banks, Justin Reed and two conditional second-round draft picks are going to the slumping Timberwolves. The Celtics also get Dwayne Jones and a future first-round draft pick, Celtics spokesman Jeff Twiss said.



"We are ecstatic to acquire a player of Wally Szczerbiak's quality to complement Paul Pierce and our young talent base," Celtics director of basketball operations Danny Ainge said in a statement.



"In Wally, we are receiving an All-Star player who is playoff tested and who has been a winner at all levels. We wish Ricky, Mark, Marcus, and Justin continued success in Minnesota."

The Boston Herald and TNT first reported the trade Thursday night.

Davis was the Celtics' second leading scorer at 19.7 behind Paul Pierce, while Szczerbiak is averaging 20.1 points for the Timberwolves.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Cory Chaos on January 27, 2006, 01:20 AM
Can we trade Kevin McHale for someone who knows how to run an NBA team?
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: S_A_Longhorn on January 27, 2006, 02:58 PM
Can we trade Kevin McHale for someone who knows how to run an NBA team?

Well, at least the Davis/Sczerbiak trade makes a little more sense compared to the Artest/Peja trade.

Just a little more sense tho.....

Glad my team is the Spurs!!!  GO SPURS GO!
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Jeff on January 27, 2006, 04:03 PM
What burns me about the Wolves trade is the loss of yet another first round pick.

Two conditional second round picks are basically worthless since I can't remember the Wolves having much luck with any other second round pick they have ever made.  Sure, there can be gems out there to be had in the 2nd round, but we'd need a good GM/President to actually pick those.   :P
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Morgbug on January 27, 2006, 04:18 PM
That's what you get for hiring a guy that never met a six pack he didn't like.  Shame really, I'd love to see the pups doing better.  As a lifelong Celtics fan, I can't be overly upset with the deal. 
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Ithorian Clergy on January 27, 2006, 04:54 PM
Can we trade Kevin McHale for someone who knows how to run an NBA team?

Well, at least the Davis/Sczerbiak trade makes a little more sense compared to the Artest/Peja trade.


As a Kings fan, I like it.  There are a very small handful of talents in the NBA that I'd take on my team before Ron Artest:

Allen Iverson
Paul Pierce
LeBron James
Jermaine O'Neal
Dwyane Wade
Gilbert Arenas
Tim Duncan
Dirk Nowitzki
Tracy McGrady
Kevin Garnett
Shawn Marion
Kobe Bryant
Elton Brand

And that's it, I think there is about a dozen better talents out there than Ron Artest.  He's the best defensive player in basketball.  He can shoot the money ball.  He blocks shots.  He shoots at a high percentage.  The only problem is that he's been taking Terrell Owens lessons.  Last year he wanted to quit the Pacers to pursue a rap career, thought twice, and 2 weeks later went ape**** at The Palace.  This year he had another nervous breakdown after a wrist injury. 

Now, why it makes sense.  Obviously, the Pacers have to trade him to change the scenery.  The Kings had to trade Stojakovic because he's a free agent at the end of the year and probably won't be resigned.  The Kings are losing Peja anyhow, so they may as well take a chance on one of the top dozen talents in the league who might be there for a long time.

The kicker is for the Pacers, is that the next day Jermaine O'Neal went down pretty much for the season.  DOH!!!  Indiana just CANNOT catch a break!  What a 2 year long disaster for a team a lot of people picked to win the East.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on January 30, 2006, 03:25 PM
Your list of players that you'd take ahead of Artest got me thinking ..... who are the top-five players in the league?
I see it this way (in no particular order):

Dwyane Wade
Tim Duncan
Kobe Bryant
Kevin Garnett
LeBron James

What does everyone else think?
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Brian on January 30, 2006, 03:37 PM
Its a tough call, but considering age, all around game, and just making their teams better, I think I'd have to agree with your list:

Kevin Garnett
LeBron James
Dwyane Wade
Tim Duncan
Kobe Bryant

There's other greats that are in the twilight of their career (or near it) such as Shaq, Nash, and Iverson.  The rest of the players listed above are probably the "best of the rest" at this point in their careers, but I'd say these 5 are probably a cut above right now as complete players.  Guys like Shawn Marion and Elton Brand are often underappreciated, but some of the more consistent players in the league right now.  Maybe not to the level yet of being the "greats" like those above, but very good.  Some players like Arenas and McGrady are definite talents, but maybe not enough of "team" guys yet.  The same could be said of Kobe I guess, but even though I don't particularly care for him, he is one of the best in the league.  Probably the best pure scorer out there right now.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Ithorian Clergy on January 30, 2006, 10:47 PM
Your list of players that you'd take ahead of Artest got me thinking ..... who are the top-five players in the league?
I see it this way (in no particular order):

Dwyane Wade
Tim Duncan
Kobe Bryant
Kevin Garnett
LeBron James

What does everyone else think?

I think I'd be forced to take Dirk Nowitzki over either Duncan or Wade.  Other than that, agreed.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on January 31, 2006, 01:25 PM
I think I'd be forced to take Dirk Nowitzki over either Duncan or Wade.  Other than that, agreed.

I think Dirk is a great player, but he isn't quite good enough on the defensive end to warrant being in my top five.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Ithorian Clergy on January 31, 2006, 02:30 PM
I think I'd be forced to take Dirk Nowitzki over either Duncan or Wade.  Other than that, agreed.

I think Dirk is a great player, but he isn't quite good enough on the defensive end to warrant being in my top five.

Well, statistically speaking anyhow, defensively Dirk Nowitzki is better than Kobe Bryant.
 
Kobe for his career averages 5 rebounds, 1.4 steals, and 0.6 blocks; whereas Nowitzki averages 8.5 rebounds, 1 steal, and 1 block.

If you want to speak in intangibles and say, "Well Kobe is just so good guarding players," I can't really subscribe to that because it doesn't translate in the statistics.  I gotta go by the numbers.

I agree that the other 4 players are better defensively than Nowitzki.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on January 31, 2006, 03:57 PM
Kobe has been on the NBA All-Defense 1st or 2nd team five times in his career.  Dirk is carrying a big goose egg in that area.  That's enough for me to determine who the better defensive player is.  Kobe is one of the best on-the-ball defenders in the game today.  And Dirk should average more rebounds and blocked shots per game ... he's nearly seven-feet-tall.  Don't get me wrong ... I love Dirk as a player, and his offensive game is a joy to watch.  I wouldn't call him a liability on the defensive end, but he isn't much of a stopper either.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on February 6, 2006, 11:30 PM
i would take dirk over wade and lebron because i think he is a more unique player than they are.  he is the kind of guy that causes all kinds of defensive problems for teams and makes scoring easier for all his team mates.

rayne is right though about dirks defense.  his first 5 years in the league the mavs point of view on defense was "the best defense is a good offense".  the whole team is doing better this year, but he will probably never be on an all defense team though.

i disagree about dirk's rebounding he gets lots of double doubles, and for his role on the team i don't think he really needs to be striving for more blocks.  guys who go for alot of blocks also get into foul trouble alot.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on February 7, 2006, 08:09 AM
i would take dirk over wade and lebron because i think he is a more unique player than they are.  he is the kind of guy that causes all kinds of defensive problems for teams and makes scoring easier for all his team mates.

Again ... not to take anything away from Dirk (I love the big German!), but Wade and James cause just as many defensive problems (if not more), and they both set up their teammates well.  Especially LeBron.  That guy's just a freak.  He's 6'8", over 240 lbs., and he's faster up and down the court than just about anyone in the league.  Add the fact that he's one of the top three passers out there, and I know I wouldn't want to try and stop him defensively.
Dirk is a tough cover though.  If you put a four or five man on him, he easily blows right by them.  Put a three on him, and he just shoots over them.  If he was a better passer, there would be no way to stop him.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Ithorian Clergy on February 7, 2006, 10:43 AM


Again ... not to take anything away from Dirk (I love the big German!)

Hey!!  I don't think you love Dirk for the right reasons!!
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on February 12, 2006, 07:27 PM
Have I mentioned lately that Dwyane Wade is a god?  Did anyone watch the fourth quarter he dropped on the Pistons today?  Simply awesome.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Ithorian Clergy on February 13, 2006, 01:43 AM
Have I mentioned lately that Dwyane Wade is a god?  Did anyone watch the fourth quarter he dropped on the Pistons today?  Simply awesome.

I saw it on ABC.  He's pretty much the total package.  I don't get the feeling that the Heat are going to seriously contend for the title though, their supporting cast (everyone except Diesel and Flash) was actually much better last year.  I still think the Pistons are going to rule the East, with the Suns or Spurs ruling the West.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on February 13, 2006, 07:46 AM
Have I mentioned lately that Dwyane Wade is a god?  Did anyone watch the fourth quarter he dropped on the Pistons today?  Simply awesome.

I saw it on ABC.  He's pretty much the total package.  I don't get the feeling that the Heat are going to seriously contend for the title though, their supporting cast (everyone except Diesel and Flash) was actually much better last year.  I still think the Pistons are going to rule the East, with the Suns or Spurs ruling the West.

I agree.  I don't think the Heat have enough to beat Detroit in a 7-game series.  Though they're the team in the East that seems to give them the most trouble (Detroit can't stop Shaq or Wade), I still don't think they're good enough ... yet.  We'll see what the second half of the season brings.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: SpudTrooper on February 14, 2006, 01:04 AM
Love D. Wade's game..but Kobe still better  8)
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on February 14, 2006, 08:17 AM
Love D. Wade's game..but Kobe still better  8)

Oh, I agree ... but Kobe also has a few years of experience on Wade.  Dwyane can only get better.  Kobe is currently in his prime.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Ithorian Clergy on February 14, 2006, 02:19 PM
Love D. Wade's game..but Kobe still better  8)

Oh, I agree ... but Kobe also has a few years of experience on Wade.  Dwyane can only get better.  Kobe is currently in his prime.

I'm really not too impressed by Kobe because he takes 27 shots per game.  He shoots at between 43 and 44%.  That percentage is not too stellar, it's okay.  He is a ball hog.

By comparison, Rip Hamilton takes 17 shots per game and shoots at 50%.  That is phenomenal.  Rip is not a ball hog.

There are a lot of players in the NBA that shoot at Kobe's %.  If he weren't such a ball hog, maybe his team would be better than .500

By the way, Dwyane Wade shoots over 48%, attempts just 19 shots per game with a 27 PPG avg, and has more rebounds, blocks, steals and assists than Kobe.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on February 14, 2006, 03:39 PM
i think the lakers would be well under .500 if kobe wasn't such a ballhog.  he is the only player on that team that would start anywhere else.  the current lakers are much like philly was for years with only iverson as any sort of scoring option.  ai's percentages have never been really good either, but he kept the team a contender without much help.

i like dwayne wade, but i probably wouldn't swoop in steal him away from the heat.  he seems to really thrive next to shaq much like penny hardaway.   i have been pretty impressed that kobe still gets such good numbers without having anyone on the team who draws any attention away from him.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Ithorian Clergy on February 14, 2006, 04:35 PM
i think the lakers would be well under .500 if kobe wasn't such a ballhog.  he is the only player on that team that would start anywhere else. 



Nah, Lamar Odom is a pretty spiffy player as well with 9.4 rebounds per game  :o, 5.4 assists per game  :D, 14 PPG at 45% (higher than Kobe I might add), as well as close to 1 steal, block, and trey per game.  To say he's not an asset and a starter on any other team in the NBA (except maybe the Pistons, but look out Tayshaun!) is not really accurate.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on February 14, 2006, 04:46 PM
i will admit i forgot about lamar odom, but that doesn't really say much for him.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on February 14, 2006, 07:39 PM
i like dwayne wade, but i probably wouldn't swoop in steal him away from the heat.  he seems to really thrive next to shaq much like penny hardaway. 

Well, any perimeter player would thrive playing alongside Shaq, but Wade was doing great things befoe Shaq got to Miami, and he was only a rookie when he was doing it.
And as for Kobe's shooting percentage ... it's really not that low for a perimeter player in today's NBA.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on February 14, 2006, 09:35 PM
i only really get to see miami twice a year, and the mavs have had their number for a while, so my perception is definitely skewed.

Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Ithorian Clergy on February 14, 2006, 10:41 PM

And as for Kobe's shooting percentage ... it's really not that low for a perimeter player in today's NBA.

Right, it's not that low.  But it's also not that good.  Rip Hamilton at 50%?  Now THAT is good.  My point is Kobe only averages 34 PPG because he TAKES 27 attempts per game.  And at 43% shooting, he's really not that impressive.  Give Rip Hamilton 27 shots per game, and he'll show you impressive.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on February 14, 2006, 11:37 PM

And as for Kobe's shooting percentage ... it's really not that low for a perimeter player in today's NBA.

Right, it's not that low.  But it's also not that good.  Rip Hamilton at 50%?  Now THAT is good.  My point is Kobe only averages 34 PPG because he TAKES 27 attempts per game.  And at 43% shooting, he's really not that impressive.  Give Rip Hamilton 27 shots per game, and he'll show you impressive.

It's apples to oranges in this situation.  Rip Hamilton is surrounded by three All-Stars and one budding All-Star on his team.  Kobe is the primary focus of every defense he plays against.  I know people like to say that so-and-so would score just as many points if they took 27 shots a game.  Do you know how hard it is and how much skill it takes to even take that many shots in one game?  Especially when you're being double-teamed almost every time you touch the ball?  That may sound ridiculous, but it's true.  Rip Hamilton is not the type of player that could create 27 shots for himself in a game ... at least not on a regular basis.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on February 15, 2006, 06:49 PM
i couldn't agree with rayne more on this.  the only guys in the league who shoot 50+% are guys who only take good shots.  kobe is forced to throw up a prayer or circus shot alot more than rip.

i am not saying rip isn't really good, but what makes the pistons special is their chemistry. and alot of that is in their ball movement and shot selection.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Ithorian Clergy on February 15, 2006, 11:53 PM
i couldn't agree with rayne more on this.  the only guys in the league who shoot 50+% are guys who only take good shots.  kobe is forced to throw up a prayer or circus shot alot more than rip.


When the Lakers put together their Dream Team the year they faced the Pistons in the finals, they had Shaquille O'Neal, Kobe, Malone and Payton (and Fisher) and Kobe shot 43% that year.  You can't make up an excuse there, even if you can get away with explaining it away for this season.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on February 16, 2006, 08:07 AM
There were some huge individual games last night.  Take a look at some box scores to see what LeBron, D-Wade, AI, and Paul Pierce did in their games.  Wow.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on February 16, 2006, 06:27 PM
i saw pierce put up 50 and lost.  thats gotta suck.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on February 16, 2006, 08:21 PM
i saw pierce put up 50 and lost.  thats gotta suck.

That's because he was playing against LeBron who dropped 43 points, 12 rebounds, and 11 assists on the Celtics.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on February 17, 2006, 08:01 AM
I'd like to wish a Happy Birthday to the greatest player to ever play the game of basketball.  Michael Jordan is 43 today.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Clone On Fire on February 17, 2006, 11:51 AM
I'd like to wish a Happy Birthday to the greatest player to ever play the game of basketball.

Ron Artest was actually born in November.

 :P
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on February 17, 2006, 01:37 PM
I'd like to wish a Happy Birthday to the greatest player to ever play the game of basketball.

Ron Artest was actually born in November.

 :P

That's so funny I'm actually having trouble laughing.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on February 24, 2006, 12:59 PM
For those of you who are shocked, amazed, yet entertained at the way Isiah Thomas is running the Knicks into the ground, you may enjoy this column:

Sports Guy (http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=simmons/060224)
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on February 26, 2006, 06:03 PM
that is a pretty funny article.  i wonder when kevin mchale will bite on one of those trade offers for KG.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Brian on March 1, 2006, 10:27 AM
It sounds like the initial roster for the next "Team USA" has been set, and will be officially announced this weekend by Jerry Colangelo.  ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=2349009) has the list of names from league sources, and this is how it is shaping up.  Keep in mind, this will be pared down to a normal 12-15 man roster eventually:

Carmelo Anthony
Gilbert Arenas
Shane Battier
Chauncey Billups
Chris Bosh
Bruce Bowen
Elton Brand
Kobe Bryant
Dwight Howard
Josh Howard
LeBron James
Antawn Jamison
Joe Johnson
Rashard Lewis
Shawn Marion
Brad Miller
Chris Paul
Paul Pierce
Michael Redd
Luke Ridnour
Amare Stoudemire
Dwyane Wade

Interesting mix of players, but lots of talent.  It seems like they are trying to build a better team this time around, and I really hope it works.  Also, here are the players who reportedly declined invitations for various reasons (weddings/babies/injuries/etc.):

Kevin Garnett
Jermaine O'Neal
Vince Carter
Ray Allen
Jason Kidd
Tracy McGrady
Richard Hamilton
Tayshaun Prince
Ben Wallace

Also, its said that Shaquille O'Neal has a standing invitation if he wants to join the team.  Three more players (collegians/high school) are expected to be added to the training roster, with Adam Morrison (Gonzaga), J.J. Redick (Duke), and Greg Oden (Indiana HS) as the leading candidates.  Anyways, more at the linky if you're interested.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on March 14, 2006, 06:48 PM
i have seen it suggested a couple of times that the defending champs just be the official team usa.  you would have to finish out the roster for foriegn players, but i imagine team usa would no longer have the chemistry issues that has plagued them for the past few events.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Jeff on March 17, 2006, 03:29 PM
Man, the T-Wolves are terrible.

13 games under .500?  Getting beat by Golden State?  7 losses in a row? 

I'm ready for baseball...  :D
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on March 17, 2006, 03:39 PM
Man, the T-Wolves are terrible.

13 games under .500?  Getting beat by Golden State?  7 losses in a row? 

I'm ready for baseball...  :D

I wouldn't be surprised if Garnett wants out of there soon.  He looks like he's getting burned out.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on March 17, 2006, 07:04 PM
maybe i have always over estimated him, but i never thought a team with kg would fall so far.  i always envision him as the kinda guy who can carry a team.  maybe he is sand bagging this year, or maybe the stiffs on the team with him are more baggage than he can carry.  i would love to see the mavs figure out a way to snag him (without losing dirk).
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Brian on March 23, 2006, 10:18 AM
Yeah, rough year for the Wolves...and KG.  It is obviously starting to wear on him now, and its sad to me seeing such a great player, who is still playing his heart out, being on such a crappy team.  It will be interesting to see what happens this summer, if he stays or is traded, or if he wants to be.

I saw on ESPN that its possible that Amare Stoudemire will make his season debut tonight.  Hopefully he's not coming back too soon, but if they can mesh him into the lineup without too many problems, they could definitely be a contender.  I think its amazing that Nash and co. have played up to the level they have this year without Amare.  I guess, with the Wolves struggling and likely not making the playoffs, go Suns :).
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Ithorian Clergy on March 23, 2006, 11:48 AM
Yeah, rough year for the Wolves...and KG.  It is obviously starting to wear on him now, and its sad to me seeing such a great player, who is still playing his heart out, being on such a crappy team.  It will be interesting to see what happens this summer, if he stays or is traded, or if he wants to be.



Yeah the Wolves are going absolutely nowhere.  They should be looking to rebuild.  Garnett is never going to win a championship with the Timberwolves, and if they deal him they can get a lot of draft picks and young players for him.



I saw on ESPN that its possible that Amare Stoudemire will make his season debut tonight.  Hopefully he's not coming back too soon, but if they can mesh him into the lineup without too many problems, they could definitely be a contender.  I think its amazing that Nash and co. have played up to the level they have this year without Amare.  I guess, with the Wolves struggling and likely not making the playoffs, go Suns :).

The Suns have been amazing in the abscence of Amare, primarily due to the play of Boris Diaw and Raja Bell who have been phenomenal.  With Nash and Marion, and now Amare back, I don't see any reason why the Suns won't go deep into the playoffs.  Will they be better than Dallas or San Antonio?  Unlikely.  Last year the Suns offense was top notch, but on the defensive side of the court they fell a little short.  Still and all, I wouldn't be totally shocked to see Detroit vs. Phoenix in the Finals, but I think we're a little more likely to see San Antonio or Dallas vs. Detroit.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on March 23, 2006, 03:16 PM
I'm not so sure if Detroit is a lock coming out of the East.  Miami plays them extremely tough, even though they lost to them last night.  Detroit has no answer for Shaq, and Dwyane Wade is capable of changing the pace of an entire series.  I still think that Detroit's the favorite to come out of the East, but a lot can happen in a seven game series.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on March 23, 2006, 06:13 PM
i have to wonder if amare can really help the suns right now.  i know he is an amazing talent, but if his game is rusty, he could be a detriment to their chemistry just as they head into the playoffs.   

i think either way they are doomed to a 2nd round dismissal anyhow, but i have to wonder if they just let him sit this season and post season out if that wouldn't actually be better for the team.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Ithorian Clergy on March 23, 2006, 08:29 PM
  I still think that Detroit's the favorite to come out of the East, but a lot can happen in a seven game series.

I have a different perspective on a 7 game series.  I think in a longer series like that, the law of probability has more time to take effect, and that the better team is more likely to win.  I think stranger things happen in a short series, where an off game carries a much heavier weight.  In the long run, more predictable things happen.

In other words, I'm going to go on record right now to say that as long as Ben and Rasheed Wallace, Billups, and Rip are healthy, the Piston are a lock to win the East.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Brian on March 24, 2006, 03:57 PM
Amare looked pretty good in his season debut last night...20 pts and 9 reb in 19 minutes of work.  He didn't seem to lose anything during his rest, and looked pretty close to his normal form in the limited playing time.  Hopefully he didn't come back too soon, he is such a great young talent and fun to watch, so hopefully he won't have further trouble with the injury.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on March 25, 2006, 12:22 PM
yup... i might have been wrong.  amare put up some great numbers in limited minutes.  i thought for sure even if he was good he would just be taking away from someone else.  he's even more scary as a 6th man that can bang out 20 and 10 in 20 minutes.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on April 1, 2006, 07:48 PM
Did anyone catch the Cleveland/Miami game today?  The way Wade and LeBron kept going back and forth was just plain awesome.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: S_A_Longhorn on April 20, 2006, 05:06 PM
Finally, the "pre"season is over, and the real season starts.  My Spurs battle the Sac Kings in the first round.  First time these two teams have played in the playoffs in a long time, if not ever.

Artest makes the Kings a really different team.  Bibby is still a dangerous player.  This should be a fun series, especially with Artest guaranteeing the Kings will not lose in the 1st round. 

The Spurs are finally getting healthy.  Despite the most wins in franchise history this year, this team has not been 100% since the beginning of the season. 

At least the real season is starting.... ;D
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on April 26, 2006, 04:22 PM
It is being said that Steve Nash will win his second consecutive MVP award.  I will now light myself on fire.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: aka DaBigKahuna on April 27, 2006, 03:27 PM
JediMac,

Where art though??? 

Suns baby.  I was invited to last nights game by a friend from work, first ever playoff game.  What a rush. 

Every time Nash went to the line the crowd chanted MVP...MVP.

Every and I mean every time Kobe got the ball the boo's in the stadium was unreal.  Playoff basketball is awesome  :o.

I was so jazzed, I realized that I am a Suns insider and get an e-mail with a password to purchase tickets two hour prior to the general public.  So guess what...I logged in to Ticketmaster at 10:00 AM this morning, entered my password, and now am the owner of x4 tickets to game 5 on Tuesday night!

We have a series...
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on April 28, 2006, 06:25 PM
i have to agree.  nash has been really good, but there have been several more impressive players this year.  i think parker, james, bryant and nowitski have all done more for their teams this year.

i forget the whole list, but the back to backers read something like, bird, jordan, kareem, wilt and shaq.  prior to last year, i wouldn't have even pegged nash as a hall of famer little more worthy of that company.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on April 28, 2006, 11:02 PM
i forget the whole list, but the back to backers read something like, bird, jordan, kareem, wilt and shaq.  prior to last year, i wouldn't have even pegged nash as a hall of famer little more worthy of that company.

That's pretty close.  Players who have won back-to-back MVPS:

Bill Russell
Wilt Chamberlain
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Moses Malone
Larry Bird
Magic Johnson
Michael Jordan
Tim Duncan
Steve Nash

Shaq has only once been named MVP, so no back-to-back wins for him.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Ryan on April 30, 2006, 04:58 AM
(http://us.news2.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/ap/20060430/capt.dxa10904300348.clippers_nuggets_basketball_dxa109.jpg)  (http://www.hauntedhouses.com/photos-movies/beetlejuice/beetlejuice141.jpeg)



(http://us.news2.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/ap/20060425/capt.cats11604250504.nuggets_clippers_basketball_cats116.jpg)  (http://www.scifimoviepage.com/images/et.jpg)

Anyone else see the resemblence?

The Clippers could be the single ugliest team in sports... Kaman needs a haircut... bad. ::)
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Holographic Elvis on April 30, 2006, 06:42 PM
KOBE!!!  The REAL MVP does it again!!!
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Darth Slothus on May 1, 2006, 12:36 PM
Sorry, I don't think the Kahuna is so amped about the suns nowadays. Too bad they couldn't 'grow a defense' for the playoffs because now we have to watch Kobes lakers' success again ::) :(.

C'mon Kings!
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: aka DaBigKahuna on May 1, 2006, 02:12 PM
Sunday's loss was a tough thats for sure.  We shall see what happens Tuesday if the Suns can pull the game off at home we still have a series.  Yes, I am being optomistic  ;D.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Morgbug on May 1, 2006, 04:30 PM
I think the Suns really, really overachieved during the regular season.  I love watching them and like the team overall as well, but Diaw and Bell maybe aren't that helpful for the playoffs or aren't quite ready for it yet?  Missing Amare still hurts them considerably. 

I would think though that teams watching the recent success of the Pistons and Spurs might realize that while defense is boring and doesn't sell tickets, it helps win championships.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Jeff on May 5, 2006, 03:19 PM
Sunday's loss was a tough thats for sure.  We shall see what happens Tuesday if the Suns can pull the game off at home we still have a series.  Yes, I am being optomistic  ;D.

Guess you can keep up the optimism...  ;)
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: aka DaBigKahuna on May 5, 2006, 09:54 PM
I am  ;D.

We just landed four tickets to game seven, it will be a blast I'm sure.

Sunday's loss was a tough thats for sure.  We shall see what happens Tuesday if the Suns can pull the game off at home we still have a series.  Yes, I am being optomistic  ;D.

Guess you can keep up the optimism...  ;)
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: aka DaBigKahuna on May 7, 2006, 11:39 AM
It was a blast (http://img104.imagevenue.com/img.php?loc=loc157&image=79733_20060506_IMG_0169.JPG) ;D!

Fo Sho (http://www.suns.com) ;)!
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on May 11, 2006, 08:08 AM
Dwyane Wade is a freak.  That first quarter he dropped on the Nets was something to behold.  And he did it so effortlessly.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: JediMAC on May 14, 2006, 08:32 AM
Go Lakers Clippers!!!   :-X
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Brian on May 16, 2006, 01:00 PM
Its really looking like the champs might get dethroned now that Dallas has taken a 3-1 lead.  Nothing is insurmountable, and the Suns have proven that this year already, but the Spurs are looking shaky at this point.  I'm surprised.  I was happy (and surprised) to see the Cavs even the series with Detroit.  I still don't necessarily like their chances of winning the series, but at least they are competing so far.  Personally, I kind of like to see some new teams making it through - making a new finals (or even conference championships) matchup.  I'd like to see someone besides Detroit, and even the Spurs, in there this year.  Hopefully Phoenix or Cleveland can make a run, and it would even be good for the Clippers after so many years of struggling.  I'd rather see Phoenix win, but I have nothing against the Clips either.  Its been a heck of a postseason, pretty entertaining I think this year.  Especially with the likes of Nash, Wade, LeBron, etc. really putting on some nice performances.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Darth Slothus on May 16, 2006, 01:09 PM
Would like to see a Phoenix vs Miami matchup
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Morgbug on May 16, 2006, 02:12 PM
Would like to see a Phoenix vs Miami matchup

That would be interesting to watch, I like both teams.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on May 16, 2006, 10:50 PM
Well ... as he has done all series, Dwyane Wade stole the game from the Nets.  Bring on the Pistons!
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on May 17, 2006, 07:19 PM
i would like to see a mavs/cavs series.  it has a nice ring to it, and 2 teams that we haven't been bludgeoned with for years.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on May 17, 2006, 10:13 PM
Well ... as he has done all series, Dwyane Wade stole the game from the Nets.  Bring on the Pistons!

Maybe I spoke too soon.  Nice!
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Dressel Rebel on May 17, 2006, 10:42 PM
Well ... as he has done all series, Dwyane Wade stole the game from the Nets.  Bring on the Pistons!

Maybe I spoke too soon.  Nice!

Bring on the ... Cavs?
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on May 18, 2006, 08:04 AM
Bring on the ... Cavs?

Let's hope so.  Seeing that Wade and King James are my two favorite players, I'd love to see them go head-to-head in the Eastern Conference Finals.  Besides, I really don't like the Pistons.  Being a huge fan of the Jordan-era Bulls, I developed a strong disliking for Detroit.  I guess that old habits die hard.
 ;)
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Brian on May 18, 2006, 10:23 AM
Quote
Let's hope so.  Seeing that Wade and King James are my two favorite players, I'd love to see them go head-to-head in the Eastern Conference Finals.  Besides, I really don't like the Pistons.  Being a huge fan of the Jordan-era Bulls, I developed a strong disliking for Detroit.  I guess that old habits die hard.

Same here.  I'd really enjoy seeing the Cavs and Heat (and LeBron vs DWade) in the conference finals.  Although I don't dislike them as much as I used to, I have the same reasoning with the Pistons as you do Rayne.  I grew up watching the Bulls, well before they went to any Finals games, and the Pistons were quite the thorn in the side - and so incredibly annoying back then with Rodman, Laimbeer, etc.  Like you said, old habits die hard.  It would be fine with me if we saw Cavs vs Heat and Mavs vs Suns in the conference finals, getting some all new teams in the Finals this year.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: JayDouble on May 22, 2006, 01:24 AM
Looks like LeBron is on the same path of Jordan so far.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on May 22, 2006, 08:20 AM
Looks like LeBron is on the same path of Jordan so far.

And, oddly enough, against the same team.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Darth Slothus on May 23, 2006, 01:46 PM
Oddly enough the path differed in the end result- Just grab 1 or 2 rebounds in the final minutes and win Lebron, .....oh well.

At Least the Clippers lost this weekend so now BOTH the LA teams can burn in hell :-X oops, go fishing.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on May 23, 2006, 11:03 PM
As I've said before, the Pistons can't stop Wade.  He barely played more than half a game, and they still couldn't stop him.  Let's go, Heat ... three more wins .....
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on May 25, 2006, 10:01 PM
I knew that Miami wouldn't show up for tonight's game and end up playing like ****.  Dammit.
 >:(
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on May 25, 2006, 10:55 PM
it looks like shaq and d wade could have used a little help.  after them the next most points scored was 7 and the much ballyhooed antoine walker only scored 2.  the biggest problem for the heat has been depth for a while.  if the heat lose the series, the big talk again will be that team work and chemistry beats a couple of superstars.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on May 26, 2006, 08:35 AM
At least the Heat finally grew some balls and competed.  They were in it at the end, and actually had a chance to win.  If I were Detroit, I'd be a bit nervous heading down to South Beach.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on May 26, 2006, 03:47 PM
i agree.   the heat just shouldn't have spotted detroit 20 in the 1st quarter.  otherwise they were very competitive.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on May 30, 2006, 08:14 AM
Have I mentioned that Detroit can't stop this man?
 ;)

(http://espn.go.com/photo/2006/0529/nba_g_wade_395.jpg)
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: JayDouble on May 30, 2006, 12:52 PM
It's crazy how good Wade is playing. 
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on May 30, 2006, 01:32 PM
It's crazy how good Wade is playing. 

Yeah ... shooting 70% FROM THE FIELD is absolutely ridiculous.  And he's a guard.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Dressel Rebel on May 30, 2006, 02:39 PM
I did not expect Miami to beat Detroit.  I also would not be shocked if Detroit took 3 straight now and beat Miami.  However, it does look likely that the Heat will advance.

And if the Heat advance, they win the title.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on May 30, 2006, 03:15 PM
  I also would not be shocked if Detroit took 3 straight now and beat Miami. 

I'd be shocked by it.  I'm not one to EVER count Detroit out, but I don't think they can beat Miami three straight times ... regardless of where the game is played.  I expect them to "hold serve" and win game five, but I think that Miami will end the series when it goes back to South Beach.  Detroit's defense has yet to find an answer for Shaq and Wade, and their offense is having trouble putting the ball in the hoop.  They're hurtin'.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Dressel Rebel on May 30, 2006, 03:26 PM
I mean, it'd raise an eyebrow maybe.  But I think the Pistons are the best team in basketball.  Nothing they do shocks me.

But again, I do think they're likely going to lose to the Heat now, and that the Heat will win the title.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on May 30, 2006, 06:01 PM
don't forget that which ever team wins in the east still has to play the winner from the west.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Rob on May 31, 2006, 01:21 AM
Which hopefully means Dallas.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: JayDouble on May 31, 2006, 01:21 AM
I think who ever comes out of the West will give the Heat problems if they advance.  All the west has to do is put Shaq in pick-n-roll situations all game long.  Sure he will dominate the offensive end but the defensive end will be a big problem.  He doesn't have to guard anyone in the Detroit series.  If the west is able to play up tempo the Heat will get killed.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on May 31, 2006, 07:56 AM
I think who ever comes out of the West will give the Heat problems if they advance.  All the west has to do is put Shaq in pick-n-roll situations all game long.  Sure he will dominate the offensive end but the defensive end will be a big problem.  He doesn't have to guard anyone in the Detroit series.  If the west is able to play up tempo the Heat will get killed.

I agree that Shaq would have a tough time guarding the pick-and-roll.  He always has.  Still ... no one on either Phoenix or Dallas can guard Wade.  There are advantages for both sides, but I do agree that the two Western teams are stronger.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on May 31, 2006, 05:34 PM
crossing my fingers and knocking on wood while i say it, i think dallas' best chance against miami (who they schooled in the regular season) is that they are alot deeper.    dallas can allow wade to go off for 50 if terry harris and howard all get 15 pts.  and, i think dirks numbers will make up for shaqs.

of course, that all hinges on them getting there, which won't happen if they get sucked into phoenix's crazy style of b-ball again.  i am still pretty hopeful, when dallas played more like that i vividly recall that if you live by the shooting streak  you also die by it.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on May 31, 2006, 10:59 PM
I knew that Miami wasn't going to win tonight.  Still ... I wasn't that impressed with Detroit.  They had the adrenaline of having their backs against the wall with the home crowd cheering them on, and they didn't play that great.  Miami simply played like **** ... and you could tell that Riley conceded the game at the end when he took Wade out.  This series will end Friday night ... just like I predicted it would.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Dressel Rebel on June 1, 2006, 10:36 PM
I knew that Miami wasn't going to win tonight.  Still ... I wasn't that impressed with Detroit.  They had the adrenaline of having their backs against the wall with the home crowd cheering them on, and they didn't play that great.  Miami simply played like **** ... and you could tell that Riley conceded the game at the end when he took Wade out.  This series will end Friday night ... just like I predicted it would.

I don't think it's out of the realm of possibility for Detroit to win 2 straight games now, in fact I'm putting the odds of them winning this series at about 60-40 with Miami having the edge.  I don't think this is a slam dunk for Dwyane Wade by any stretch.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Rob on June 1, 2006, 11:24 PM
What an awesome fourth quarter for Dirk and the Mavs...   :o
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 2, 2006, 08:16 AM
I don't think this is a slam dunk for Dwyane Wade by any stretch.

Of course it isn't.  Detroit is too good of a team with a history for winning in the clutch.  That being said, I don't believe that Wade will allow Miami to lose tonight.  He's my favorite player ... so I must believe in him and cheer him on.  If Detroit ends up winning the series after being down 3-1, then they more than deserve to be in the Finals.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 2, 2006, 08:23 AM
What an awesome fourth quarter for Dirk and the Mavs...   :o

That was a thing of beauty to watch.  Wade and Diggler are playing the best basketball in the Playoffs right now.  I'd love to see their teams go head-to-head in the Finals.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on June 2, 2006, 05:37 PM
that was quite a display.  you guys probably already heard this stat, but dirk is only the 5th guy in 35 years to get 50 and 10.  that puts him in the company of k malone, barkley, macadoo and a guy i have never heard of before.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: JayDouble on June 2, 2006, 06:26 PM
Dirk was crazy last night.  Some of his shots didn't even make the net move.

Heat better wrap it up tonight or they're done.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 2, 2006, 10:58 PM
Heat better wrap it up tonight or they're done.

Ask and you shall receive!
What do you do when your Ferrari isn't operating at peak performance?  You rev up that Diesel and ride it all the way to the NBA Finals!
 :D
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: JayDouble on June 3, 2006, 12:08 AM
Shaq hasn't looked that good since the first run with the Lakers.  Congrats to the Big Fella and Heat.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Ghost of QG on June 3, 2006, 12:45 AM
Heat better wrap it up tonight or they're done.

Ask and you shall receive!
What do you do when your Ferrari isn't operating at peak performance?  You rev up that Diesel and ride it all the way to the NBA Finals!
 :D

Maybe, but nothing beats great German engineering. That's why Dirk and the Mavs will beat the Heat in the Finals!!!!
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 3, 2006, 08:08 AM
Maybe, but nothing beats great German engineering. That's why Dirk and the Mavs will beat the Heat in the Finals!!!!

Yeah, you're probably right ... but at least it won't be another Spurs/Pistons Finals snooze-fest.  NBA fans the world over can rejoice!
 ;)
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on June 3, 2006, 04:26 PM
that is true.  no matter who comes out of the west, we will not be watching 2 teams buckle down and grind it out to a big 70-65 finish.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Darth Slothus on June 3, 2006, 04:35 PM
The Mavs are in the finals? saw it posted here that they are facing the Heat??! You have to win 4 right? ::)
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 3, 2006, 11:37 PM
The Mavs are in the finals? saw it posted here that they are facing the Heat??! You have to win 4 right? ::)

Yup ... which they just did tonight.
 ;)
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Rob on June 4, 2006, 02:41 AM
The Mavs are in the finals? saw it posted here that they are facing the Heat??! You have to win 4 right? ::)

That's right, now I wonder if maybe I can find some cheap tickets to any of the games.   ::)
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Dressel Rebel on June 4, 2006, 10:08 AM
I know Rob is in Texas, but who else here are legitimate hometown Miami or Dallas fans?

(It's gonna be a while before I see the Knicks in the finals)
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 4, 2006, 08:24 PM
I know Rob is in Texas, but who else here are legitimate hometown Miami or Dallas fans?

(It's gonna be a while before I see the Knicks in the finals)

My sister and her family live near Miami.  Does that count?
 ;)
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Dressel Rebel on June 4, 2006, 11:10 PM
I know Rob is in Texas, but who else here are legitimate hometown Miami or Dallas fans?

(It's gonna be a while before I see the Knicks in the finals)

My sister and her family live near Miami.  Does that count?
 ;)


No.

You get to choose from the Knicks, Nets, and Raptors. 
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Rob on June 4, 2006, 11:28 PM
I'm pretty excited... I didn't have a basketball team growing up in Tampa, unless you count the Magic - which I never got interested in.  So while I'm not a long-time Mavs fan, they're the team I root for whenever I'm watching basketball.  I used to work across the street from the AAC and could walk there from my house in about 25 minutes.  I've gone to a handful of games over the last two seasons... it's a hell of a lot of fun.

Should be a good series regardless of who wins.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 5, 2006, 08:39 AM
No.

You get to choose from the Knicks, Nets, and Raptors. 

No thanks.  I've never been one of these people who feels compelled to like a team due to geographical proximity.  I don't mind the Yankees, but I don't follow baseball enough to have a favorite team, I can't stand the Buffalo Bills, the three NBA teams you offered to me make me vomit, and the NHL doesn't exist to me.
 ;)
I tend to like players, and if I like a player enough, it evolves into liking their team.  I followed Jordan since he was a Tar Heel ... hence, I was a Bulls fan when he played for them, and I'm still a Tar Heels fan to this day.  I never jumped on the Bulls bandwagon, so I don't want to hear it from anyone.  I suffered through their heart-breaking playoff eliminations through Jordan's first six seasons, and rejoiced when they finally won their first championship.  The dynasty that followed was just gravy.  I still like to see the Bulls win, but after the way they let that team fall apart in '98, I feel no loyalty to them.  Dwyane Wade is my favorite athlete since Jordan left the game, and I've always liked Shaq, so I now cheer for Miami.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Brian on June 5, 2006, 10:46 AM
Although I am a little disappointed that the Suns couldn't pull that series out, it should be a pretty fun finals.  I enjoy watching the Heat, D. Wade in particular, and the Mavs aren't too bad of a team either.  And, like people mentioned earlier, I was just hoping we wouldn't have a Detroit/San Antonio finals again.  Its nice to have some new teams, and we should have some higher scoring games.  It should be entertaining...go Heat.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on June 5, 2006, 05:05 PM
i can claim to be a legitimate hometown fan.  i am very excited for the mavs.  for those of us in the dallas area, its been a pretty long road.   
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Rob on June 5, 2006, 06:15 PM
i can claim to be a legitimate hometown fan.  i am very excited for the mavs.  for those of us in the dallas area, its been a pretty long road.   

Not for me, I've only been here 3 years.   ;D
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on June 5, 2006, 11:14 PM
so you probably don't remember all the 50+ loss seasons.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 8, 2006, 10:11 AM
The Finals start tonight, and I, for one, couldn't be happier.  I've really loved the playoffs this year, and it's been almost a week since I've had a game to watch.  I'm going through withdrawal.
 ;)
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Rob on June 8, 2006, 11:21 AM
so you probably don't remember all the 50+ loss seasons.

Thankfully no, but I did my share of sports suffering growing up with the Tampa bay Bucs as my team.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on June 8, 2006, 06:21 PM
The Finals start tonight, and I, for one, couldn't be happier.  I've really loved the playoffs this year, and it's been almost a week since I've had a game to watch.  I'm going through withdrawal.
 ;)

i couldn't agree more.  this time off with no games seem interminable.

at least as a positive note, both our fave teams have survived this long, so the long long summer where there is no basketball will be shorter.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Jediknight760071 on June 8, 2006, 06:48 PM
I know Rob is in Texas, but who else here are legitimate hometown Miami or Dallas fans?

(It's gonna be a while before I see the Knicks in the finals)

Buy "Eddie".
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 8, 2006, 11:30 PM
Wade sits down in the 4th quarter and the rest of the Heat forget how to play basketball.  Wonderful. 
Maybe it's just me, but if I was playing against a player who is as hot as Jason Terry is tonight, I wouldn't leave him open on fast breaks.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 8, 2006, 11:56 PM
And that run ended up being the difference. 
Oh well.  The Heat played about as bad as they could.  Too many turnovers ... terrible at the line (though only two guys shot foul shots.  Really?  Come on.).  At least U proved that he can guard Dirk rather well.  I still feel good about the Heat's chances, especially seeing that the middle three games are in Miami, but it would've been nice to steal Game 1.
Overall, this game wasn't as entertaining as I thought it would be.  Both teams were a bit rusty.  I expect that to pick up by Game 2.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Dressel Rebel on June 9, 2006, 12:36 AM
Well, if nobody else is going to do it, I may as well provide the resistance to the Flash/Diesel fan club here, being that I can't stand either one of them.

I'm not a Mavericks fan (being a New Yorker), but I do love the big German.

Let's go Mavs!
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 9, 2006, 07:57 AM
Well, if nobody else is going to do it, I may as well provide the resistance to the Flash/Diesel fan club here, being that I can't stand either one of them.

I'm not a Mavericks fan (being a New Yorker), but I do love the big German.

Let's go Mavs!

What could you possibly have against Wade?  The guy's soft-spoken, humble, articulate, stays out of trouble,  plays the game unselfishly and with passion, and he's one hell of a basketball player.  What has he done in his three years in the league to make you not be able to stand him?
And remember, you picked the Heat to win it all.  You can root for the Mavs, but you can't take back that prediction now.
 ;)
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Brian on June 9, 2006, 10:48 AM
Quote
What could you possibly have against Wade?  The guy's soft-spoken, humble, articulate, stays out of trouble,  plays the game unselfishly and with passion, and he's one hell of a basketball player.

I'd have to agree, I don't know what Wade has done thus far for people not to like him.  Shaq - ok, I understand, some people don't care for him - for some reason I think I've liked him the best this season because he's been able to take a backseat to a teammate and not have a problem with it.  But anyways, back on topic, I've always thought that D. Wade was more than humble, while at the same time having confidence in himself.  I mean, everyone is of course entitled to their opinion though, I just don't think I've ever heard anyone say they couldn't stand him before.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Matt on June 9, 2006, 11:05 AM
Biggest winners last night weren't the Mavs, but instead the viewers--who weren't forced to listen to this dumbass:

(http://i.a.cnn.net/si/2005/scorecard/12/14/best.quotes/p1_walton.jpg)

I think it's been several years since I've watched a Finals game that he wasn't doing color on.  Last night was oh-so-nice.

---

Dwayne Wade:

I hate everybody, but even I don't see anything to hate about Dwayne Wade.  But that kinda makes me hate him, now that I think about it.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 9, 2006, 11:38 AM
I hate everybody, but even I don't see anything to hate about Dwayne Wade.  But that kinda makes me hate him, now that I think about it.

Well, that I can understand then.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on June 9, 2006, 06:16 PM
in a way it was nice to see the mavs play really really bad and still win.  there is alot of sweep talk here now.  i would be surprised if that was true,  but last night was a pretty good omen.  it instills alot of confidence when the mavs shot 32% in the 1st quarter and the heat shot 70% and the mavs still weren't in a hole so big that no one could dig out.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 9, 2006, 07:51 PM
in a way it was nice to see the mavs play really really bad and still win.  there is alot of sweep talk here now.  i would be surprised if that was true,  but last night was a pretty good omen.  it instills alot of confidence when the mavs shot 32% in the 1st quarter and the heat shot 70% and the mavs still weren't in a hole so big that no one could dig out.

I'd be a bit worried if I were the Heat ... but it won't be a sweep.  Dallas won't win the first two games in Miami.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Roton7 on June 11, 2006, 01:27 PM
I think Dwayne is a pretty cool dude, but I can't stand Shaq. Therefore I'm going for Dallas.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 11, 2006, 08:23 PM
I think Dwayne is a pretty cool dude, but I can't stand Shaq. Therefore I'm going for Dallas.

Now that I can understand.
 ;)
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Rob on June 11, 2006, 08:46 PM
How about this one:

I can stand Shaq quite easiliy, infact I think he's hilarious, but I live two minutes away from the American Airlines Center, in Dallas - so I'm going for Dallas.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 11, 2006, 10:27 PM
How about this one:

I can stand Shaq quite easiliy, infact I think he's hilarious, but I live two minutes away from the American Airlines Center, in Dallas - so I'm going for Dallas.

Even better ... and at this rate, the Mavs are going to be champs in four games.  The Heat have to grow a pair of balls and stop playing like a bunch of goddamn pussies.  And get the ball to Shaq, dammit!
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Dressel Rebel on June 11, 2006, 10:45 PM
How about this one:

I can stand Shaq quite easiliy, infact I think he's hilarious, but I live two minutes away from the American Airlines Center, in Dallas - so I'm going for Dallas.

Hrmmm...on the other hand, being just 2 minutes from the AA Center, you may be fairly heavily impacted by the riots after the Mavs win.  Or lose.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Rob on June 12, 2006, 12:04 AM
Well, considering that almost no one lives downtown in Dallas (a trend that's changing for the better with the development boom we're in the midst of) there probably won't be any good rioting unless they win it at Home.

So, unless the Heat can take two out of the next three, there's little hope of a decent riot.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 12, 2006, 08:29 AM
Hrmmm...on the other hand, being just 2 minutes from the AA Center, you may be fairly heavily impacted by the riots after the Mavs win.  Or lose.

It's nice that you're diplomatic about the outcome of the series, but even I'll admit that it's over for the Heat.  Dallas is just too deep, too young, and too good for Miami.  The Heat will show up Tuesday night, but I'm not even sure if they have enough to get the series back to Dallas. 
 :(
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on June 12, 2006, 04:44 PM
the final game of a championship has never been played in dallas, and it looks like this is not the year again.

i still expect shaq to drop 40 on the mavs, but with the complete lack of help shaq and wade are getting that might not be enough to get even the win.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 14, 2006, 12:17 AM
Damn, Wade is a ******* warrior.  He played most of the second half on one leg and almost the entire fourth quarter with five fouls, but he simply wouldn't let the Heat lose.
I still don't think they'll win the series, but at least they've finally joined it.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Rob on June 14, 2006, 01:10 AM
That was ******* painful... what are the odds of Shaq making two clutch free throws and Nowitzki missing one to get the Heat a win?

I'm staying upbeat though - the Heat's A-game only beats the Mavs by two.

Mavs in 6.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Chris M on June 14, 2006, 01:13 AM
Is it just me, or does it seem as if the announcers for the game have been all about Miami?  It seems as if most of the series they've announced as if the Mavs are just another team on the floor and the Heat are the best and blah, blah, blah.  I get sick of hearing announcers who favor one team over another.

Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 14, 2006, 09:14 AM
Is it just me, or does it seem as if the announcers for the game have been all about Miami?  It seems as if most of the series they've announced as if the Mavs are just another team on the floor and the Heat are the best and blah, blah, blah.  I get sick of hearing announcers who favor one team over another.



I wouldn't agree with that at all.  Hubie Brown is in love with the Mavs.  There were many times last night where he made comments that made it sound like the Heat were doing nothing to affect the Mavs' game and it was just that they weren't playing well. 
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Dressel Rebel on June 14, 2006, 11:08 AM
Is it just me, or does it seem as if the announcers for the game have been all about Miami?  It seems as if most of the series they've announced as if the Mavs are just another team on the floor and the Heat are the best and blah, blah, blah.  I get sick of hearing announcers who favor one team over another.



I agree.  Most of what I heard was Wade this and Wade that.  It was gross.  A little Dirk mixed in as well, at reasonable levels.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Brian on June 14, 2006, 11:53 AM
Quote
Is it just me, or does it seem as if the announcers for the game have been all about Miami?  It seems as if most of the series they've announced as if the Mavs are just another team on the floor and the Heat are the best and blah, blah, blah.  I get sick of hearing announcers who favor one team over another.

I don't know that I agree with this either, although I think it depends on what team you are going for.  There might have been a lot of Wade talk in the game last night, but the guy played a heck of a game.  The same thing happened when watching Dirk go for 50 in the last round, I don't think I heard anything other than his name the entire 2nd half of that game - with good reason, he was playing unbelievably.  I didn't notice the announcers being too biased one way or the other to be honest, although the referreeing was suspect for a little bit early on.  That technical call on Wade for hanging on the rim was weak, especially when Dampier did it within a couple minutes of game time much worse.  Of course, I've always hated that call, regardless of who it is on - within reason.  If someone is swinging on it for 5 minutes, yeah, that's a little excessive - but if it is just a swing around the rim and then dropping off, who cares.  I guess as a fan I just think it makes it look cooler.  I know I never really understood the problem with us dunking in pregame in high school either, that would also be a technical.  Anyways - back on topic - it was a good game, I'm hoping Miami can at least make a good series out of it - the more basketball the better.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Morgbug on June 14, 2006, 02:02 PM
what are the odds of Shaq making two clutch free throws and Nowitzki missing one to get the Heat a win?


About 800 Billion to one.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Dressel Rebel on June 14, 2006, 02:27 PM
what are the odds of Shaq making two clutch free throws and Nowitzki missing one to get the Heat a win?


About 800 Billion to one.

Well, mathematically, Shaq is a 46.9% free throw shooter.  The odds then of hitting 2 consecutive free throws is:

.469 x .469 = .21 or 21%

However, that's his regular season free throw shooting %.


In the finals, he had been shooting 12.5% from the line.  So the odds then of him hitting 2 consecutive free throws last night was:

.125 x .125 = .01 or 1%

1% chance of that happening.

And on top of that, the odds of Nowitzki missing that 2nd free throw was very low, he's one of the best in basketball.

 :)
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 14, 2006, 04:16 PM
Well, mathematically, Shaq is a 46.9% free throw shooter.  The odds then of hitting 2 consecutive free throws is:

.469 x .469 = .21 or 21%

However, that's his regular season free throw shooting %.


In the finals, he had been shooting 12.5% from the line.  So the odds then of him hitting 2 consecutive free throws last night was:

.125 x .125 = .01 or 1%

1% chance of that happening.

And on top of that, the odds of Nowitzki missing that 2nd free throw was very low, he's one of the best in basketball.

 :)

Hence why I think we should all be ready for the impending apocalypse.
 ;)

Seeing that I seem to be the only person in this thread rooting for the Heat, this article won't mean much to any of you:

Wade misses practice, but says he'll play in Game 4 (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/playoffs2006/news/story?id=2484003)
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Morgbug on June 14, 2006, 05:16 PM
I don't mind the Heat at all.  I also happen to really like Dwayne Wade as a basketball player.  I'm not much of a Shaq fan though and his abysmal free throw percentage has left him short of more than one championship in his history in the league.  But I could find it in my heart to be happy that Miami won, if only because I could rub it in the Lakers fans face that Shaq got a championship before Kobe did.  That could be lots of fun. 

And I'm not much of a Mavs fan either.  I like them, but I don't routinely root for them either.  No attachment and I'd have preferred to have seen Phoenix in the final over the Mavs.  Oh well.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on June 14, 2006, 05:43 PM
actually with shaq having shot 2 for 16(?) in the 1st 2 games, he was technically due for a couple of free throws to fall.

that was pretty brutal last night, but i think the mavs will be able to learn from the tape and will be able to come back tomorrow.    alll i really want is for someone to tell avery to stop trying to milk the clock when they have a lead.  i was so frustrated watching the mavs dribble out the shot clock and then throw up a prayer. if they had kept playing like they did in the 3rd quarter, they could have beat the heat by 30.  also, why weren't they exploiting wade's 5 fouls?  i would have run devin harris or jason terry at him every single play until he fouled out or the mavs went up by 50.   like i said for a mavs fan that was a hard game to watch.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Rob on June 15, 2006, 10:13 PM
I take it back, the way the Heat are playing now, they head back to Dallas up 3-2.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 15, 2006, 10:49 PM
I take it back, the way the Heat are playing now, they head back to Dallas up 3-2.

That would be nice. 
And it would seem that Wade's knee is doing just fine.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Dressel Rebel on June 15, 2006, 10:56 PM
I take it back, the way the Heat are playing now, they head back to Dallas up 3-2.

That would be nice. 
And it would seem that Wade's knee is doing just fine.

Where's Tanya Harding when you need her?
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 16, 2006, 12:04 AM
Sweep?  Was someone in this thread talking about a sweep?
 ;)
Looks like we have a series now.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Matt on June 16, 2006, 12:10 AM
Sweep?  Was someone in this thread talking about a sweep?
 ;)
Looks like we have a series now.

 :-[

It stopped being a sweep two nights ago.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 16, 2006, 12:28 AM
:-[

It stopped being a sweep two nights ago.

Really?  I wasn't aware of that.  Thanks for keeping me up on things.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Matt on June 16, 2006, 12:35 AM
Really?  I wasn't aware of that.  Thanks for keeping me up on things.

My pleasure.

Better get out your brooms, everybody,
'cause there's gonna be a sweep!
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Rob on June 16, 2006, 01:04 AM
I'm going to be ******* furious if there isn't a parade down the street from here come next Thursday.

Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Dressel Rebel on June 16, 2006, 07:07 AM
Hmmmmpph...

(http://us.i1.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/sp/tools/med/2006/06/ipt/1150445763.jpg)
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 16, 2006, 08:05 AM
What?  Do you have something against interracial man-love?
 ;)
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Dressel Rebel on June 16, 2006, 09:04 AM
What?  Do you have something against interracial man-love?
 ;)

Clearly not  :P
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Dressel Rebel on June 17, 2006, 01:43 PM
This suspension of Jerry Stackhouse is total bull****.  You can see clearly that when the left hand went up he was trying to block the shot, and when he couldn't he had to foul to put Shaq at the line instead.  That's part of the game.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Morgbug on June 17, 2006, 05:07 PM
I don't disagree that the suspension is BS, but to suggest he was going for the ball tells me the only thing you saw was the picture from above.  I saw the foul during the game and believe me, a bodycheck in the NHL had nothing on Stackhouse's little move there.  His arm going for the ball was nothing more than an afterthought and a piss poor effort to camouflage the flagrant foul.  He went to knock Shaq out of the way, there was never an attempt at the ball.  No way, no how. 
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Roton7 on June 18, 2006, 03:15 PM
I'm officially ticked. A few nights ago, all the sport shows were saying how Mavs were going to win regardless. Now, I wouldn't be surprised if the Heat take the lead in the series tonight. :'(
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 18, 2006, 06:52 PM
Stackhouse was definitely NOT going for the ball.  He meant to foul Shaq hard and put him on the foul line.  And that's exactly what he did.  In no way did he deserve to be suspended.  This game is getting a bit too soft.  Hell, when the Bad Boys used to utilize the Jordan Rules against MJ, they'd foul him like that all of the time.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Rob on June 18, 2006, 08:49 PM
Ball or not, an ejection was not warranted.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 18, 2006, 10:34 PM
Ball or not, an ejection was not warranted.

Well, he wasn't ejected from the game ... which supports even stronger the fact that he shouldn't have been suspended.  Like I said in my previous post, the league is getting a bit soft.
As for tonight's game, it's a must-win for Miami ... but their level of intensity in the first half made it look like no one bothered to tell them that.  If they want a chance to win this thing, they MUST go back to Dallas up 3-2.  They need to pick it up in the second half.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Rob on June 18, 2006, 10:35 PM
It's a must win for both teams.

Whoever wins this almost always gets the championship.


Hopefully Miami's streak of not being able to win when trailing at the break holds true.

But something tells me it won't...
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 19, 2006, 12:08 AM
This series has been too good to not have at least one overtime game, right?
Even if Miami doesn't win this game, it's been a great one to watch.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Rob on June 19, 2006, 12:38 AM
Well that sucked. 

At least the Mavs put up a fight.  I still think they'll be okay going back home.  But this is why I hate the 2-3-2 format, at this point in time, the team who didn't earn home court has had more home games than the team that did earn it, and obviously home court is huge.



Breaking news:  The game ended 10 minutes ago, but Wade just went to the line to shoot 2 yet again.   ::)
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Matt on June 19, 2006, 12:39 AM
I think it's high time we put all that "sweep" talk to rest, fellas.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Rob on June 19, 2006, 12:43 AM
Well if Miami wins later this week, it's kind of like a sweep for them isn't it?   :-X
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 19, 2006, 12:49 AM
Best player in the game .....

(http://i.a.cnn.net/si/2006/images/06/19/Dwyane_Wade_T1.jpg)

It's a shame that a game that good had to end with a bone-headed mistake by a great young player who played a terrific game.
I still don't think the Heat can win in Dallas, but at least they now have two chances to do it.  The pressure is now on Dallas.
And Rob ... I appreciate the joke about Wade's foul shooting.  Still, Dallas primarily shoots jumpers, and Miami consistently attacks the rim (especially Wade).  There should be no surprise that the Heat shoot more foul shots.  Also, Dallas went with the chicken-**** hack-a-Shaq strategy tonight, and though it worked, it also put the Heat in the penalty faster.  When Wade knows that his team is in the penalty, he attacks even more and gets to the line.  Intentionally fouling Shaq may have actually backfired a bit tonight.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Rob on June 19, 2006, 10:51 AM
Whether Wade is amazing or not, the bottom line is that the Heat went to the line 49 times to the Mavs' 25:

http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/sports/basketball/nba/golden_state_warriors/14851696.htm

Quote
Certainly no Stackhouse was a factor, but in the end, and throughout the 53 minutes, this was a contest decided by whistles from the NBA's trio of officials.

Those whistles did not favor the Mavs, certainly with just under two seconds remaining in overtime when Dwyane Wade drove to the bucket, missed the shot, yet got the whistle.

Was it a foul? Not one that should have been called, for sure. It was ticky-tack at best on a Dirk Nowitzki swipe.

Mavs got hosed - on Stackhouse, on a several of those foul calls, and arguably on the Howard time-out. 

Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Brian on June 19, 2006, 10:53 AM
Quote
It's a shame that a game that good had to end with a bone-headed mistake by a great young player who played a terrific game.
I still don't think the Heat can win in Dallas, but at least they now have two chances to do it.  The pressure is now on Dallas.
And Rob ... I appreciate the joke about Wade's foul shooting.  Still, Dallas primarily shoots jumpers, and Miami consistently attacks the rim (especially Wade).  There should be no surprise that the Heat shoot more foul shots.  Also, Dallas went with the chicken-**** hack-a-Shaq strategy tonight, and though it worked, it also put the Heat in the penalty faster.  When Wade knows that his team is in the penalty, he attacks even more and gets to the line.  Intentionally fouling Shaq may have actually backfired a bit tonight.

I agree with the point about the difference in free throw shooting.  You can see that Dallas (especially the past few games) has really just become a jump shooting team, while Miami (particularly with Wade and Shaq) are taking it to the rim quite consistently.  Its smart on Wade's part to exploit that, especially when you're shooting 21 for 24 or whatever on freethrows.  Although I'm probably in the minority, I'm happy to see Miami win - and happy to see a good, competitive series.  I wouldn't be surprised in the least if it went 7 games now, and what more can we as fans ask for?

Also, regarding Stackhouse's suspension - yeah, that was an over-reaction.  However, there was no way he was going for the ball on that foul.  He shoved Shaq out of frustration, plain and simple.  He didn't warrant a suspension, but he wasn't making a good foul trying to strip the ball either.  Although some of the calls in the last couple games have been unfortunate (or "controversial" to some), I don't like the fact that is all we're hearing from Dallas' camp.  I miss the days where some players or teams (not all), would just say "that was the call, they won the game" type of comments - where now so many players and coaches (and not just Dallas, but most) will whine about how they got screwed.  Seeing the footage this morning of Nowitzki throwing down exercise equipment, kicking basketballs, etc. disappoints me - its his teammate who made (or didn't) the timeout call, it was he (Nowitzki) who, along with Howard, missed freethrows that could have iced games.  Don't blame Dwyane Wade for sinking two free throws to win it.  What's he supposed to do, tell the refs "no, don't put me on the line, it wasn't a hard enough foul" :).  Regardless, I'm really enjoying these finals - both teams have been playing good throughout the playoffs, and its been a great matchup to watch.  I'd rather have this than Detroit-San Antonio any day :).
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Brian on June 19, 2006, 10:56 AM
You know, one thing with foul calls in general in the playoffs - I just don't like:  I was listening to ESPN commentators (and others) discuss the game(s) and hearing lines like "you just swallow the whistle and let them play in situations like this" or "Wade earned that call with his drives the whole night".  Although I'm glad that Heat won, I think both of these comments are kind of silly.  I know it doesn't exist much anymore, but how about the refs just call the game fair throughout.  I've always disliked the "its the playoffs so let them beat the hell out of each other" mentality.  Lord knows those Knicks-Pacers 70-60 games back in the 90s represented some of the worst basketball we've seen.  Just call it fair - a foul is a foul.  If you are hit when you're shooting/driving/etc., its a foul.  I don't care if you end up in the front row, or if its just a bump - it should be called regardless.  If they stuck to the rules and called a good game, there wouldn't be any issues.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Dressel Rebel on June 19, 2006, 11:02 AM
This series demonstrates the vast anti-German conspiracy that has been showcased by NBA officials over the past few years.  The officials concocted a plot against Dirk Nowitzki before the Finals even began, and became angry when they could not alter the results of games 1 and 2, and are now coming full throttle at the Mavs in the closing minutes of each game to ensure that the Heat win.  I also suspect that Pat Riley has bribed at least one official. 
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Morgbug on June 19, 2006, 11:20 AM
Quote
Just call it fair - a foul is a foul.  If you are hit when you're shooting/driving/etc., its a foul.  I don't care if you end up in the front row, or if its just a bump - it should be called regardless.  If they stuck to the rules and called a good game, there wouldn't be any issues.

I think they threw that option out the window a long time ago Brian, about the same time they decided that a little travelling was good for the game.  As talented as these guys are, this ceased be as much basketball as it was entertainment a long time ago.  With that comes the inevitable what's a foul, what's not a foul.  I see so many hand checks, push offs, arm wrap arounds to get by it's laughable.  Basketball was at one point a non-contact sport - incidental contact was allowed, but otherwise it was a foul.  In the 1970's Dwayne Wade would have been fouled 5-6 times on the way to the hoop in the dying seconds, last night it's a questionable call that he was fouled once?  Yeah, I agree, they were ticky-tacky, but it's still illegal contact.  Did Dallas get ticky-tacked as much as well?  Yup, sure did, but when you make the line blurry, lots of stuff gets missed, last night it favored Miami.  You take that crap out of the game and it's cleaner and less controversial, but I suppose it's also less entertaining. 

Quote
I also suspect that Pat Riley has bribed at least one official.
I was sure I saw him counting bills from a billfold last night close to the end of regulation, but I was surfing for porn at the same time, so I was sort of distracted :-X
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Brian on June 19, 2006, 11:29 AM
You're exactly right Brent - perfectly worded.  The line has been blurred, so there are "technically" fouls throughout the game - and when you leave that grey area, the calls will be controversial, especially depending on who you're going for or not going for.  Its too bad really, these are the most talented basketball players in the world - we should be able to hold them to that higher standard of officiating/rules.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Roton7 on June 19, 2006, 11:47 AM
I'm a little on the fence about this...

One of my favorite current players is Dwyane Wade. And since the Heat would have stunk without him, shouldn't I be happy about all this? But as I said before, I hate Shaq. So shouldn't I be mad? I'm so confused...
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 19, 2006, 12:44 PM
This series demonstrates the vast anti-German conspiracy that has been showcased by NBA officials over the past few years.  The officials concocted a plot against Dirk Nowitzki before the Finals even began, and became angry when they could not alter the results of games 1 and 2, and are now coming full throttle at the Mavs in the closing minutes of each game to ensure that the Heat win. 

Hahaha ... that's awesome.  The league must not be ready to be dominated by a German player.




Then again ... we do have a reigning two-time MVP who is white and Canadian.
 ;)

Back to the fouls ... do I think that Wade was fouled on that last play?  Yes ... but I think that he got hit worse by Harris, who basically cut out one of his legs.  The foul should've been called, but probably not on Diggler.
Dallas has no one to blame but themselves for the foul-shooting disparity.  When you employ the hack-a-Shaq strategy, it can sometimes backfire.  Yes, you put Shaq and his putrid shooting percentage on the line, but you also put the Heat in the penalty.  When Wade knows that the other team is in the penalty, he attacks.  You really have no choice but to foul him.  If you lay off him, he hits jumpers in your face, like he did at the end of the third quarter/beginning of the fourth quarter.  And though it may be hard to believe, there were some ****** calls on both sides of the ball.  Haslem didn't really earn six personals last night, and the one that sent him out of the game was a phantom call.  I do hate when a game comes down to the officials, though.  It lessens the outcome, and partially negates the brilliant performances some of these players put on.
You'll see a different scenario in Game 6.  Cuban will whine enough from now until then, and it always seems that the refs favor the home team a bit.  Miami will have to play the game of their lives if they expect to get out of this series with a championship.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Rob on June 19, 2006, 12:48 PM
Haslem didn't really earn six personals last night, and the one that sent him out of the game was a phantom call.

I like Haslem, he's a fellow gator and we attended at the same time, but In the replay they pretty clearly showed him committing the foul.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 19, 2006, 01:25 PM
I guess my point is that the officiating is never going to be perfect, and unfortunately, the NBA probably has the worst officiating of any of the major sports.  I just hate when a loss is blamed on the refs.  Like I said before, it takes away from the great games that certain players (Wade, Terry, Howard) had, and puts the attention and emphasis on the wrong thing.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Dressel Rebel on June 19, 2006, 01:43 PM
Despite the "TO call" last night, it really shouldn't have even come to that.  The Mavs missed 3 of their last 4 foul shots (Dampier and Howard) and basically gave the game away.  Even Shaq was 2-2 in the final minute foul shots in game 3, and he's a disaster on the foul line.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 19, 2006, 02:10 PM
Despite the "TO call" last night, it really shouldn't have even come to that.  The Mavs missed 3 of their last 4 foul shots (Dampier and Howard) and basically gave the game away.  Even Shaq was 2-2 in the final minute foul shots in game 3, and he's a disaster on the foul line.

Yeah ... there were plenty of occasions last night where plays were made (or not made) that affected the outcome of the game.  It's unfortunate that the officiating is taking center stage in this one, but that's the way it goes.  Miami got hosed pretty bad in one of the games in Dallas when Shaq and Wade were the only two players to shoot foul shots for the entire game.  They didn't get the calls because they were passive and settling for jumpers ... which is similar to the way Dallas played in Miami.  Dirk and Co. will get calls if they give the refs no choice but to make calls for them.  I expect Dallas to be much more aggressive in Game 6.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on June 19, 2006, 06:26 PM
someone needs to closely check josh howards bank accounts.  he was clearly paid off to throw that game.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: SpudTrooper on June 19, 2006, 11:47 PM
i love this game  8)
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 20, 2006, 08:13 AM
I expect Dallas to come out with a lot of energy tonight.  The home crowd will really get behind them.  Miami will have to weather the initial storm if they are to have a chance to win this thing.  It's going to be a tough game for them ... especially seeing that they tend not to show up when they aren't facing elimination.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Dressel Rebel on June 20, 2006, 02:44 PM
The funniest thing I heard on the radio today was the following brief report I heard on the 20/20 Flash Update on WFAN radio:

"Mark Cuban was fined $250,000 by the NBA today for several acts of misconduct."

I was laughing pretty hard for a good minute.

Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Matt on June 20, 2006, 02:45 PM
Two simple, casual thoughts from a simple, casual basketball fan:

1. I know this is a "must win" game for the Mavericks tonight, but isn't it kind of a must win game for the Heat, too, given that it's virtually impossible to win a Game 7 on the road, in pretty much any sport?

2.  I'm glad that the series is back in Dallas, if only for the reason that the player introductions in Miami were some of the most annoying and obnoxious intros I've ever seen and heard.  Their PA guy sucked, and they were way too long.  The other night, when the national anthem started up, I went for a piss, and then fixed myself a drink, came back, and they were still in the middle of introducing the HEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEeeeeeeeeeaaaaat.

Sorry; nobody's intros will ever be as good as the Jordan-era Bulls intros were.  No sense in trying to top them.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Jeff on June 20, 2006, 03:01 PM
"Mark Cuban was fined $250,000 by the NBA today for several acts of misconduct."

$250,000 fine (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/playoffs2006/news/story?id=2491783)


Reported fines levied by NBA against Mark Cuban
Total Fines:  13 
Fines of $200,000+  =  4 
Fines of $100,000+  =  8 
Total fine amount  =  $1,665,000.00

Wow, that's a TON of cash to waste bitching at NBA referees...  :o
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Dressel Rebel on June 20, 2006, 03:05 PM
Yeah, Mark Cuban is just a lot of fun because he's a freakin' lunatic:

"Cuban then turned to Stern and other NBA officials who were seated at the scorer's table and was overheard to shout venomously in the jubilant din, '[Bleep] you! [Bleep] you! Your league is rigged!' "


(http://www.rutherfordfamily.net/Mark68262057093_3300_1-1.jpg)
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Rob on June 20, 2006, 03:33 PM
Cubes rules.  He's been at my company a few times before and is always a hit apparently. 

He also matches any fines he incurs with equal donations to charity.

So the bigger the fine the better.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 20, 2006, 03:39 PM
Two simple, casual thoughts from a simple, casual basketball fan:

1. I know this is a "must win" game for the Mavericks tonight, but isn't it kind of a must win game for the Heat, too, given that it's virtually impossible to win a Game 7 on the road, in pretty much any sport?

2.  I'm glad that the series is back in Dallas, if only for the reason that the player introductions in Miami were some of the most annoying and obnoxious intros I've ever seen and heard.  Their PA guy sucked, and they were way too long.  The other night, when the national anthem started up, I went for a piss, and then fixed myself a drink, came back, and they were still in the middle of introducing the HEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEeeeeeeeeeaaaaat.

Sorry; nobody's intros will ever be as good as the Jordan-era Bulls intros were.  No sense in trying to top them.

I agree with everything you said above.  Though I don't think the Heat will beat Dallas four straight times, they have a better chance of winning the Series tonight then if it goes to Game 7.  And that's what makes me nervous.  The Heat don't always "show up" when they perceive that the situation lacks urgency.  I think that they must win tonight, but I can see that they may be thinking, "Well, we have two chances to win this thing."
I'm a fan of the Heat, but I wish their announcer would just shut the **** up (though he isn't as annoying as the Pistons' announcer).  There have been many that have tried to imitate the great Ray Clay and the way he announced the Bulls' lineup during the Jordan Era.  I've yet to see anyone come even close.  
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 20, 2006, 03:40 PM
And the one bit of joy that I would get out of a Dallas win in this series would be to watch David Stern have to present the Championship trophy to Cuban.  I'd almost pay to see that.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Dressel Rebel on June 20, 2006, 03:42 PM
And the one bit of joy that I would get out of a Dallas win in this series would be to watch David Stern have to present the Championship trophy to Cuban.  I'd almost pay to see that.

May very well be the most hysterical moment in NBA history, let's hope we see it.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Matt on June 20, 2006, 03:48 PM
Cuban's a total jackass, but the guy has more passion than the rest of the owners in  all of professional sports combined.  I like that.  We need more owners like him.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 20, 2006, 10:23 PM
Great first half ... for both teams.  Do you think these guys could go on a few more runs?
 ;)
Miami sustained Dallas' high-energy opening outburst, which was critical for them to have a chance in this game.  And I love to see Diggler having a good game and playing aggressively.  It looks like he and Wade are setting the table for quite the shootout.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on June 21, 2006, 12:01 AM
congrats to the heat fans.  it was another nail biter.   
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Scott on June 21, 2006, 12:04 AM
I'm proud to say I watched a grand total of 0 minutes of the playoffs this year
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 21, 2006, 12:05 AM
congrats to the heat fans.  it was another nail biter.   

Wow ... what a game.  I need to calm down.
 ;D
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Morgbug on June 21, 2006, 12:07 AM
Just noticing that hockey is a much more noble sport than basketball.  Oilers lost last night, but tradition holds that you stay out there and line up and shake the other teams hands at the end of the series.  The NBA players kick a few balls, hang their heads and go off to the dressing room to sulk.  

Oh, and I feel for Nowitzki on that foul.  Wade smacked him pretty hard with his free arm.  He'd be right in complaining IF HE HADN'T BEEN MOVING HIS FEET.  Offensive player is always going to get the foul in their favor if the defensive player is moving, no matter who initiates the contact.  It sucks, but that rule holds from junior high on up.  

Always sucks for one team to lose.  I'm happy for Wade but sad for the Mavs as a team.  I like them and they are very good. 
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Rob on June 21, 2006, 12:15 AM
That was very disappointing - but congrats to the Heat... Wade is amazing and is probably going to win a bunch more before he's done.

I wonder if the chamipionship parade in Dallas Sunday is cancelled...
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Matt on June 21, 2006, 12:36 AM
As nice as it would have been to see Stern have to present the trophy to Cuban, it's even nicer to see the Mavericks have to give it up on their home court.  It warms my heart to think that the same fans that were booing Michael Finley just a few weeks ago are the same ones who had to watch their team choke it away tonight.

Congrats, Miami!

 
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 21, 2006, 01:03 AM
(http://espn-i.starwave.com/media/apphoto/e43721a0-45b8-4c8e-af0c-20af20013a46.jpg)
(http://espn-i.starwave.com/media/apphoto/103f5654-ee2c-47d9-9c7d-59ae599692ab.jpg)
(http://espn-i.starwave.com/media/apphoto/ff725f90-d651-44a4-90da-638d09ced7e0.jpg)
(http://espn-i.starwave.com/media/apphoto/2726fcd1-7ce7-4f75-a79e-1108bb2cf4b7.jpg)
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: JayDouble on June 21, 2006, 01:13 AM
Congrats to Heat.

And to think if the Mavs closed out game 3, we might of saw Mark Cuban in his speedo.   :-X
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Rob on June 21, 2006, 01:21 AM
As much as I wanted the Mavs to win - it's cool to see Mourning get a ring.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Scott on June 21, 2006, 09:30 AM
It's also cool to see Shaq get another one...

(http://www.rotten.com/library/bio/sports/kobe-bryant/kobebryant1.jpg)
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Brian on June 21, 2006, 10:29 AM
Another great game last night, and I was happy to see Miami pull it out.  Aside from the poor officiating throughout the playoffs this year (and in the past several years), I think this is the most I've enjoyed a championship series since the 90s Bulls teams.  I really enjoy watching Dwyane Wade play, and its nice to see he has a humility to him as well.  Outstanding in these finals.  I never would have guessed that they would win four straight against Dallas.  Officiating or not - you have to blame yourselves somewhat when you lose four games in a row to any team.

I kind of enjoyed seeing Shaq get another title as well (for the Kobe factor), but especially liked seeing Alonzo Mourning get one.  With what that man has been through, and for being pretty close before, its got to be a nice capper to his career - whether he continues playing or not.  Pretty much everyone on that team were first time champs, aside from Shaq and Riles.

I like what Brent mentioned as well.  I don't really follow hockey that much to be honest, but I like the fact that there is more sportsmanship shown in the example he mentioned.  I lost some respect for the Mavs with a lot of the whining, kicking/throwing of basketballs, bikes, etc. after games.  Sure, I know it can be frustrating, but these guys are all adults.  It isn't just the Mavericks either, but an overall theme with the NBA in years past - lots of whining, rarely taking the blame.  I can't believe how many times players will talk/act like they didn't foul a guy, and the replay makes it painfully obvious that they murdered them.  Anyways - off topic at this point, but good points made about fouls/sportsmanship in general.  One of the reasons I really started to wanted the Heat to win (aside from Wade) was that I thought they handled things very well.  When they got whooped in the first couple games, they took the blame themselves - said they needed to play better, be more aggressive, etc.  You didn't hear a lot of talk about the refs, just about themselves as players and a team.  Congratulations to the Miami Heat.  It was a great ride, and a pretty exciting playoffs overall.  Now...predictions for next year? :P  I think Dallas has a great chance of being back.  Miami might too, depending on its aging players.  If Wade keeps playing the way he has, he might be able to carry them pretty well himself.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Rob on June 21, 2006, 10:32 AM
I'll just leave this one last conspiratorial nugget out there - I don't necessarily endorse this and I haven't independently verified the numbers, but I see no reason why it wouldn't be accurate:

"On the 4 game winning streak, Miami shot 55 more free throws than Dallas. 55....in the last two games, decided by a total of 4 points, they took 38 more free throws."
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Brian on June 21, 2006, 10:53 AM
I believe that fully, there has definitely been a difference in free throws during the last couple (really last 4) games.  But, that often happens in basketball.  I attribute a lot of it to the "Hack a Shaq" piling up the team fouls, then Wade attacking the rim even more once that happened (as someone else mentioned earlier).  Also, the officiating in general just seemed poor on both sides of the ball.  Its a trend that has been continuing for a few years I think, and its really too bad.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Roton7 on June 21, 2006, 10:56 AM
That last foul against Dirk was total bull. His arm was just in the way, and then Wade deliberately runs into his arm. If you ask me, the fould should've been called against Miami.

But congrats to Dwyane on a great series!

No, not congats to Heat, congrats to Dwyane. Without him, they wouldn't have even been in the playoffs.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 21, 2006, 12:34 PM
That last foul against Dirk was total bull. His arm was just in the way, and then Wade deliberately runs into his arm. If you ask me, the fould should've been called against Miami.


Yup ... but as mentioned earlier, when you run into the offensive player and you're shuffling your feet (which Dirk definitely was), you're not going to get the call. 
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 22, 2006, 08:05 AM
This is how Mark Cuban blew off some steam after Game 4 (Miami's one blowout victory in the series).  By the way ... that's not Cuban's wife.

(http://www.deadspin.com/assets/resources/2006/06/cubancouch.jpg)

(http://www.deadspin.com/assets/resources/2006/06/cubanstretch.jpg)
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Dressel Rebel on June 22, 2006, 10:05 AM
Uh oh!

Someone's sleeping on the couch tonight...
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 22, 2006, 10:57 AM
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA ... this is fantastic:

Knicks fire Brown, name Thomas new coach (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=2496106)

If there's one thing basketball-related that Isiah is worse at than being a GM, it's coaching.  Still ... I can't help but feel a bit of justification on this one.  Isiah was the dumb **** who made the team the disaster it is.  It will be entertaining to watch him try and coach it.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: JayDouble on June 22, 2006, 11:18 AM
Uh oh!

Someone's sleeping on the couch tonight...

5.8 billion reasons I don't think that will happen.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Brian on June 22, 2006, 11:39 AM
Quote
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA ... this is fantastic:

Knicks fire Brown, name Thomas new coach

If there's one thing basketball-related that Isiah is worse at than being a GM, it's coaching.  Still ... I can't help but feel a bit of justification on this one.  Isiah was the dumb **** who made the team the disaster it is.  It will be entertaining to watch him try and coach it.

I just saw this on ESPN.com as well.  I guess it isn't overly surprising, but this definitely isn't going to fix the Knicks.  Like you said, its almost justified to see him try to coach this train wreck of a team he's assembled.  Its amazing to me that he has this type of control, because it seems obvious that he has no idea what he is doing in coaching, management, or anything else in the organizations he's been associated with.  He was a heck of a player, but it looks like he should have left it at that.  This will be interesting.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Dressel Rebel on June 22, 2006, 12:29 PM
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA ... this is fantastic:

Knicks fire Brown, name Thomas new coach (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=2496106)

If there's one thing basketball-related that Isiah is worse at than being a GM, it's coaching.  Still ... I can't help but feel a bit of justification on this one.  Isiah was the dumb **** who made the team the disaster it is.  It will be entertaining to watch him try and coach it.

The Knicks are dead for years to come.  Larry Brown is a great coach, firing him achieves nothing.  He's going to get most of the $40 million that's still coming to him.  Thomas is going to fail coaching this team.  And with the salary situation, and the trading of high lottery picks for Eddy Curry, this team is absolutely  buried.  I just, I don't have anything else to say.  But Larry Brown is just about the only person in the Knicks organization who should not be leaving.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Dressel Rebel on June 22, 2006, 12:31 PM
Uh oh!

Someone's sleeping on the couch tonight...

5.8 billion reasons I don't think that will happen.

I know he's rich, but I guess we'll see how much his wife likes the picture of him with his hand on the ass of a blonde in his lap.  Then again, I don't know much about his wife.  I know any woman that I marry would have the divorce papers filed already.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Neal on June 22, 2006, 12:38 PM
But Larry Brown is just about the only person in the Knicks organization who should not be leaving.

Exactly.  It's not Brown's fault that the team sucks and is made up of a bunch of head-cases who wouldn't listen to him anyway.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: JayDouble on June 22, 2006, 12:42 PM
What I don't understand is why fire Larry when you know that the 2nd year he's with a team there's a lot of improvement.  The first year is to break down the player and after that improvement will show.  Maybe we can get jobs with the Knicks.   :P
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Holographic Elvis on June 22, 2006, 12:51 PM
Easy Jay: it's New York.
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: john todd on June 22, 2006, 05:25 PM
they worked it out that including the 7 mill that detroit gave him in his buy out, and the 10 mill that ny paid him last year and the 40 mill they have to pay him since they fired him instead of buying him out or waiting for him to decide to go elsewhere, brown pulled in $57 mill in this last calendar year for having the worst record in the east.

i can't believe they let him go.  no one, not even red aurbach could make francis and starbury into a cohesive team.  why not just make him ride out the sucker contract he signed?
Title: Re: NBA 2005/06
Post by: Dressel Rebel on June 22, 2006, 10:51 PM


i can't believe they let him go.  no one, not even red aurbach could make francis and starbury into a cohesive team.  why not just make him ride out the sucker contract he signed?

Because Jim Dolan and Isiah Thomas needed a scapegoat.  In my opinion Larry Brown and Channing Frye were the only 2 Knicks worth keeping around, and now only one of them remain.  Now Isiah won't have anyone to blame but himself with this mind-numbing cluster**** disaster of a team wins 28 games this year.  Isiah brought these players together, and now he coaches them too.  Isiah has exactly 300 days left with this franchise, and then he too will be gone.